The Bermuda Economic Development Corporation is encouraging consumers to eat, shop and play in the island’s three Economic Empowerment Zones this holiday season.The BEDC’s “Eat, Shop, Play” Shop to Win promotion is on now until Christmas Eve.Anyone who spends $20 or more in any participating restaurant or store in the Somerset, North East Hamilton or St George EEZ is entered into a draw for a chance to win a $500, $300 or $200 gift voucher redeemable at participating restaurants or stores in an EEZ.Donte Hunt is the BEDC’s micro, small and medium enterprise officer in charge of the North East Hamilton EEZ. He said: “We want to encourage members of the public to expand their idea of where to spend their dollars this holiday season. While there are great stores and restaurants in the city centre of Hamilton, there are also great locations outside of those areas too.“We want people to consider these different spaces that often get overlooked. Our aim is to encourage the public to share the love, share the spend and hopefully reignite business in some of these areas.”Ondreyah Rochester and Dennis Carter, junior MSME officers in charge of Somerset and St George respectively, said: “As officers in these areas, we get to know the businesses and see the great products, food and services they have to offer. By participating in this initiative, members of the public have the opportunity to explore new spaces and get to know them too.” Kristin White, owner of Long Story Short, a tour centre, retailer and bookstore in St George, welcomed the promotion. She said: “I’m very excited about BEDC’s initiative to encourage people to shop in the East End and hope everyone takes the time to come to St George. “Come see the lights, the winter wonderland, and then spend some time having a calm and leisurely shop around the town. Of course, I am biased, but I believe St George is the best place for finding thoughtful, unique gifts, plus, free parking!”Everton Dawes, owner of Casual Footwear in Hamilton, added: “My customers are delighted that they have a chance to win cash vouchers that translates to a free pair of shoes or two. At Casual Footwear, we sell high quality and extremely comfortable shoes that protect one’s feet and posture — after investing in their feet, it is a nice touch for them to know that they can be rewarded for shopping at my store. Great initiative!”Voucher winners will be announced on December 27 and prizes can be collected at BEDC on January 9, the organisation said.For more information and a full list of participating stores, see www.bedc.bm