PENOLA district shoppers have been urged to support their local shops as the Christmas spending season steps up.
The town’s annual late night shopping event was held last week to encourage people to support Penola’s stores.
Organised this year by Local Images’ Cate Bell, an impressive 22 businesses participated – doubling last year’s figure – with the event running from 4pm until
8pm.
“The event is aimed at reminding the community about the importance of shopping locally and supporting local businesses,” Ms Bell said.
Unfortunately the hot weather reaching into the high 30s kept some shoppers away.
“Mother nature was not kind on the day, however it was good to see some businesses still being quite successful,” Ms Bell said.
Koonara Wines director and part-owner Nicole Reschke said she was pleased with the flow of customers during the extended opening hours.
“I was happy with the evening and it was great to see the support from those who have now began their Christmas shopping,” Ms Reschke said.
“I hope this continues through the Christmas season and the community thinks about local shops during the period.”
Some first-time businesses in the event this year included the Naracoorte and Penola Veterinary Services, Australia Post and the Penola Fantasy Theme Park, Model Railway and Tea Rooms.
An array of discounts were available from participating stores and two attractive hampers were up for grabs to further entice the region to shop local.
The hamper valued at up to $1300 filled with vouchers and donated gifts was won by Marion Patterson and the $150 hamper from Mink For Hair was won by Gerry Haines.
Balnaves of Penola sales representative Sheree Treglown commented that late night events such as these were effective, especially over the Christmas period.
“During this time in particular the community should support not only local businesses, but Australian products, to ensure money is kept in the town,” Ms Treglown said.
Ms Bell backed her comments.
“We have seen the effects of not supporting local shops in Penola and events such as this allow for the continuous availability of stores in the town,” she said.
“I hope people grasp the magnitude of the importance of shopping local as stores can not solely rely on tourists to continue.”
