Council is re-igniting its popular Love Local campaign to boost support of local businesses following the latest COVID-19 restrictions.
The campaign, first launched in January 2020 amid that summer's bushfires, encourages the community to spend more with local businesses during difficult times. It evolved last year during the onset of the pandemic.
To raise awareness of the many ways consumers can support local business, Council is now providing marketing resources to suit a variety of businesses.
The new Love Local signs and social media resources feature calls to action and information, such as 'Takeaway only', 'Classes online' and 'Contactless pick up'. These resources are available to download from Council's website here: bmcc.nsw.gov.au/love-local-resources-for-business.
Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: "It's devastating for our local operators that just as they were recovering from last year's bushfire aftermath, and COVID-19 lockdowns, they face further obstacles when it should be the busiest time of year. Many of them had been anticipating increased visitors for the winter school holidays.
"We support the current restrictions that can help us stay safe and keep this pandemic under control, but it is vital now more than ever that we keep supporting those businesses that remain open, albeit under different circumstances.
"These businesses still have overheads to pay, including rent, power and their suppliers. I'm aware that many people have reduced budgets, but if we can all spend even a few extra dollars at our local shops or cafés on takeaways, it can all make a significant difference.
"Council's Love Local campaign is a way we can encourage consumers to get behind their local shops, services, or food outlets. Providing marketing resources to local businesses, so they can promote how they're operating during current COVID-19 restrictions will help locals understand how they can provide support."
Council is also waiving rents for all tenants in Council buildings under commercial agreements during the current lockdown period, given the ongoing strain on local businesses following multiple crises.
The community can support local businesses by:
- Shopping over the phone or online at a local business
- Ordering takeaways or delivery from your favourite restaurant during COVID-19 shutdowns
- Buying gift cards from local businesses
- Writing a review or promoting your favourite business on social media
- Sharing the Love Local campaign.
Council officers are also compiling a list of the resources and assistance initiatives that are becoming available to support affected business. To stay up to date subscribe to our regular Business News Snapshot and this information will be emailed to you. Go to bmcc.nsw.gov.au/business/business-news-snapshot.
For more information about how to Love Local go to: bmcc.nsw.gov.au/love-local.
