GILGANDRA SHOP LOCAL PROGRAM

Published on 21 January 2020

In its 11th year, Gilgandra’s Shop Local Program saw significant impact in the lead up to Christmas 2019 in the face of the ongoing drought conditions in our Shire.

Running alongside of Council’s 12 Days of Christmas promotion at ‘the GIL’ and the #GilgandraGiftGuide digital campaign, all businesses within the Shire, including those without a shop front, were part of the program.

With over 17,500 entries and envelopes averaging approximately $85 in tax receipts, this directly contributed over $1.4M to the Gilgandra economy.

Doug Batten says that while this spend for the competition had such a positive impact, it clearly shows how the ongoing effects of the drought.

“The impact of the worsening drought conditions on our local businesses and families can be seen through these results, with figures down by almost half in spending from last year. This is not only from Christmas shopping, but the lack of agricultural spend our community would normally see around this traditional harvest time of the year. Sadly, this in line nationally with consumer spend and the changing face of retail”

Adding,

“This program gives residents and visitors another reason to spend in Gilgandra, supporting local businesses, while also showcasing the array of products, services and gifts that can be accessed without having to drive to Dubbo or shop online. This will always be seen as a positive outcome, particularly with the program having successfully completed its 11th year.”

“Knowing that we are now going into a traditionally quieter retail period, it is important we continue to support our local businesses.”

Gilgandra Shire Council resolved to sponsor the promotion in 2018 and 2019 and General Manager, David Neeves says there will be a review and assessment over the next few months to determine how the promotion may look for 2020.

“The Economic Development Committee have dedicated countless hours in looking at ways to make this promotion attractive for our local residents to encourage them to shop locally during Christmas. Most importantly it needs to benefit our local businesses.”

Adding,

“The Committee and Council are committed to looking at ways of encouraging shopping locally, as a key strategy in Council’s plans. We will ensure the program aligns with what our community and businesses want and would like to hear from businesses and the community about what you would like to see.”

“We would like to thank the Economic Development Committee for their efforts and in particular Wes Morris and Doug Clouten” says Mayor Batten.

If you have any feedback regarding this program, or ideas for 2020 please visit Council’s website, contact Council directly on 6817 8800 or by email enjoy@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au.

 

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Contact:         Kathryn Larkin

                      Marketing & Communications Manager

                      klarkin@gilgandra.nsw.gov.au

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