With only five weeks left until Christmas, Wagga businesses are encouraging residents to shop locally as much as possible for presents to boost the economy.
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The calls come following a number of businesses closing down this year.
As well, a number of outlets have said no additional staff would be hired during Christmas due to the lack of activity.
Hayley Veitch, manager of giftware store Cobbler rd, said she hoped the festive season would boost returns.
“We’ve been operating for 12 years now and we always have to stay different to stay opened,” Ms Veitch said.
As for that difference, she said more than 80 per cent of their products were handmade.
“Our most popular seller is our concrete handmade jewelry and candles, which are made here in Wagga,” Ms Veitch said.
“The other big thing for us is engraving items to personalise them – that’s the number one seller for Christmas.”
The store also stocks children’s clothes and toys, as well as wall artwork.
Ms Veitch said that there had been an increase in store traffic in the past 2–3 weeks.
We’ve been operating for 12 years now and we always have to stay different to stay opened.
- Hayley Veitch, manager of Cobbler rd
A recent survey by comparison website Finder estimated that Australians will spend $25 billion collectively or $1235 per person this year on Christmas.
Last in year, Wagga residents were estimated to have spent about $38 million collectively.
Rebekah Kirby, store manager of ISHKA on Balyis Street, said there was usually “a mad rush right before Christmas”.
She said a popular gift item in the store was salt lamps, which produce healthy ions in the air for better health.
“They’re hand-carved and are all completely chipped so each has a unique shape,” Ms Kirby said.
Wagga Business Chamber president Danielle Pascoe also joined the calls for residents to shop locally.
“We are fortunate to be serviced by a diverse range of businesses that take pride in being local and providing a more personalised shopping experience than is typically available with capital city or online options,” Mrs Pascoe said.
“In addition to the economic benefits, often you are able to find unique gifts that makes your purchases for your loved ones even more special.”
For residents who may opt to contribute their dollars to community and social causes, they have the various charity stores in Wagga, including the Australian Red Cross.
Lesley Harrison, Australian Red Cross’ area manager of ACT/NSW, said the best part about shopping at the organisation’s stores is that “it’s guilt-free shopping”.
“Proceeds from your purchases go towards our life-changing services at home and further afield.
“And you’re helping the environment by buying something pre-loved or donating it to our store, giving it a new lease on life.
“You can feel good knowing you are supporting Red Cross by making a purchase, as we provide so many vital services across Australia like a hot meal for the homeless, a daily Red Cross telephone call to check an elderly or isolated person is okay or a driver mentor for a young person looking to get their driver’s license.”
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