By Mitchell Clarke
As the retail industry begins to reopen and get to a state of normalcy again, there is a renewed push to support local this Christmas.
With popular mega chains Kmart and Bunnings flooded with customers again, locals are being urged to instead shop a little closer to home, where possible.
Many small businesses are set to feel the pinch of the pandemic for months and years to come, and that stark reality is one of the driving factors that prompted Gembrook MP Brad Battin to launch his ‘Think Local, Support Local’ campaign.
“The road to recovery for small business is going to be a long one, and I believe as a community we must do all we can to assist, ensuring we protect local jobs,” he said.
“This Christmas make sure you come down and support our local businesses and make 2021 a very special year for these small businesses that continue to support our community.”
With the festive season nearing, Mr Battin’s campaign will also coincide with his ‘12 Days of Christmas’ competition.
Locals are encouraged to nominate their favourite business within the Gembrook electorate for a chance to win a voucher to spend at that chosen shop.
“We will draw 12 lucky people who have nominated wonderful local businesses and if you win, we’ll give you a voucher to spend this Christmas,” Mr Battin explained.
“It’s been a tough year, so shop local, think local and support local to make sure our small businesses are here when we need them in the future.”
The competition will reward the community by putting a much needed boost back into the struggling local economy.
Nominations close on 11 December. The store with the most nominations will also win a celebratory hamper.
To vote for your favourite local business, visit: https://bradbattin.com.au/.
