mmg.com.au

The pre-Christmas trading period has proved to be an unexpectedly positive one for some local businesses thanks to support from shoppers.

Kyabram Chamber of Commerce president Sheryl Hatch said traders would like to thank shoppers for supporting the local business community.

‘‘As business owners we get confidence when locals support us and then it becomes a situation where we can help and everyone wins,’’ she said.

‘‘There are a lot of clubs and groups out there who will be looking for sponsorship and donations.

‘‘Between them our businesses certainly put a lot of funding into local organisations. But we need the continued support of shoppers.’’

Having experienced a quiet trading month in November, after Banksia Securities was handed over to receivers on October 25, there had been concerns among Kyabram retailers they would not see the regular annual Christmas shopping spree.

Former Kyabram Chamber of Commerce president Lou Ciavarella canvassed several local business owners last week to see how trading had been for them during what is traditionally the busiest time of the year for many.

‘‘Some retailers’ takings were a bit up and others said they were very close to figures from the same time 12 months ago,’’ Mr Ciavarella said.

‘‘Most said the peak period had started slowly but had gained momentum closer to Christmas, especially in the last two weeks.

‘‘After Banksia we all thought it would be quieter, but in the end it seems most have either been about the same or a bit better.’’

Both Mr Ciavarella and Mrs Hatch said some customers told them they were making a special point of trying to do all their shopping in Kyabram to support the local economy and in doing so had found their local businesses were competitive.

‘‘I think retailers are pleased the community has got behind them after we made a point of highlighting the importance of shopping locally,’’ Mr Ciavarella said.

‘‘What we expected to be a quieter Christmas for business has actually turned out to be quite good in the end.’’