Vital for residents to shop locally

The trial campaign proposed by Councillor Steve Tuntevski, is aimed at injecting money directly into communities.
He said both State and Federal Governments have been “asleep at the wheel when it comes to our local economy”.
“Only a few years ago Panania town centre had no less than three fruit and vegetable shops, now we have none,” he said.
“I’m seeing more and more empty shops and for lease signs than ever before.
“Shop owners are telling me they have never seen it this bad, it’s really worrying.”
Cr Tuntevski said the closure of “anchor” tenants such as bank branches, motor registries and the like, has had a devastating effect on small businesses.
“I don’t want more businesses going bust, that’s why I’ve called for the council to establish a buy local campaign,” he said.
“We need to encourage more purchases in our local town centres, not elsewhere.” Impressed with the initiative, Panania businessman Rob White says it’s “absolutely essential” for people to start thinking about their buying behaviour and supporting local businesses.
While admitting he understands consumers making decisions on convenience and going to larger centres or department stores, he says they are missing out on opportunities offered locally.
Describing himself as the only builder in the area who also runs a ladies fashion store, he owns both Forever You Fashion and Home Essentials and Giftware in Panania.
“Our customers always talk about how affordable we are,” he said.
“We run on lower overheads and we are not out to make outlandish profits and on top of that we support the community. People come in for a chat and get to know our staff and we get to know them.
“Most of the businesses around here are owned and run by locals and it’s great to have local community support.”