COOTAMUNDRA residents are cashing in on that home-town advantage this Christmas by shopping local and supporting businesses that put back into the community.
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Sportspower Cootamundra and Toyworld shop assistant Danielle Phillips says that customers are already putting items on layby for Christmas.
Toys are the order of the month, and as per usual, fitness-related items are top-sellers, particularly pool toys and trampolines.
“Trampolines are always popular this time of year, that’s what people are asking for,” Mrs Phillips said.
Mrs Phillips says that locals are still shopping in Cootamundra because of the convenience factor.
“I do my Christmas shopping here, why make an extra trip when I can buy what I need in town?”
She says that the price difference is negligible between items in Cootamundra and items in larger shopping outlets, and she likes to support local business.
Terry Brothers Carpet Court Cootamundra owner Peter Terry is a strong advocate for shopping locally and takes pride in the product he delivers to retailers.
“When somebody comes into the shop, they have to be looked after properly,” Mr Terry said.
“You are greeted as you walk in, and staff go through all the lengths they possibly can to ensure you will get what you are looking for.”
Melbourne Institute Westpac Banking Corporation figures indicate that Australian consumer confidence has been gradually rising since September from 93.97 to a score of 96.57.
This confidence boost may bode well for retailers in Cootamundra, however it’s worth noting that the average consumer is not entirely optimistic about their financial situation, as a score below 100 means that more people surveyed are pessimistic than optimistic.
Cootamundra Development Corporation chairman John Stephens is urging the community to get behind local retailers.
“Give the locals a chance, and if something’s not there, ask for it,” Mr Stephens said.
“People have got to remember that local retailers put back into local communities, unlike large retailers and internet retailers.”
Many Australians are favouring online shopping as online retail figures released this month by the National Australian Bank indicate online sales are 12.8% higher this year compared to September last year.
“The consumer is a lot more clued in on what’s available to them,” Mr Stephens said.
While growth in online sales continues to outpace traditional retail, its growth rate has been slowing gradually.
Mr Stephens believes online shopping is “peaking out” because most people prefer a face-to-face retail experience.
“In a shop you get to touch and feel what you buy, compared to buying off a picture and hoping it gets there in one piece.
“With online shopping a lot of times you are disappointed with what you get.
“Retailers in Cootamundra are meeting the needs of a smarter clientele with good customer service.”