Businesses cashing in with Buy Local campaign
With more than $46,000 worth of cards sold, one local business has had more than $3,000 cashed in at their tills.
New tires, electrical work and roast chickens are just some of the things people have bought with their Buy Local gift cards since the program launched at the start of December.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said of the $46,000 worth of cards sold only $11,000 of products had been redeemed so it wasn’t too late for local businesses to sign up to the program and reap the benefits.
“The program encourages residents and visitors to shop locally and help build a stronger united Fraser Coast business community,” he said.
“We now have more than 130 businesses participating, there's no cost to be involved, and all you need is an EFTPOS terminal to be able to participate.
The ‘Open for Business Buy Local’ campaign was developed as part of the Council’s efforts to stimulate the Fraser Coast economy following the Covid-19 pandemic.
It was developed using feedback from a Council investigation into the impact of COVID-19 on Fraser Coast businesses in 2020.
“Buying local is the best way for people to support Fraser Coast businesses, great for local jobs and great for our local communities,” Cr Seymour said.
Businesses interested in joining the program can sign up through the Council webpage www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au or email economic.development@frasercoast.qld.gov.au to receive further information and express their interest.
“The gift cards were not only for Christmas presents,” Cr Seymour said.
“Anyone can buy a card at any time. Grandparents and relations who are unable to visit the Fraser Coast to celebrate a birthday, wedding or engagement can buy a card online to send to their grandkids, nieces, or nephews to spend in Fraser Coast shops.
“People living here can give them to each other as gifts for birthdays and clubs could use them as raffle prizes.”
The program will run for at least three years.
For more information including a full list of participating business and reload stores go to - frasercoastgiftcard.com.
CAPTION: Sara Storoy from Replenish Refill and Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour chat about the success of the Buy Local Gift cards program