Retail stores in Young have shared in a $48 billion dollar retail boon over the Christmas trading period.
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The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said that Australians spent more than $48.1 billion in retail stores over the Christmas trading period from November 15 to December 24, 2016.
Young Development Group spokesman Brian Mullany said he would always encourage Young residents to spend locally.
“If people do shop locally it’s more likely that shop will be able to stay in business,” he said.
“I always urge people to give a local a try because we do have everything that anyone could want.
“We’ve got great shops in Young.”
ARA executive director, Russell Zimmerman said Australian consumers spent 2.3 percent more on Christmas at Australian retail stores this year compared to 2015.
“We know clothing, accessories and footwear have been strong in recent months, and I expect that is because Christmas is just the time to gift that new bag or pair of shoes,” he said.
“It was also encouraging to see a 5.7 percent growth for the hospitality category as Australians increased their patronage to restaurants and bars in the festive season.”
Mr Zimmerman said supporting local retailers, supports the local economy and jobs in Australia.
“Local retailers in regional towns like Young have an innate understanding of what the locals want, so often it is best to shop where retailers understand your requirements,” he said.
Vicki Powderly of local icon Poppa's Fudge Factory said shopping locally is important for the town's economy.
It's a big wheel, whatever gets spent here gets re-spent locally.
- Vicki Powderly
"We always shop and spend locally, it's a big wheel, whatever gets spent here gets re-spent locally," she said.
"I am very passionate about spending locally, it's our responsibility to give back and we do encourage people to shop in Young."
Mrs Powderly said the pay off of spending in Young is employment.
"We have all local staff and they work hard to ensure we have a great product and they offer great service," she said.
Local retailer Marilyn Schiller said she always tries to shop in Young.
"My first preference is to shop locally all the time not just at Christmas time," she said.
"I have a business in Young so we always shop locally and encourage others to do the same."
Craig Thomson
I am a media and communications professional with experience across print, digital, social and radio broadcasts. I am currently the Editor of Australian Community Media's Launceston Examiner.
I am a media and communications professional with experience across print, digital, social and radio broadcasts. I am currently the Editor of Australian Community Media's Launceston Examiner.
