In an era where online shopping has become the norm, Bendigo retailers have taken on the challenge of reinvigorating the shopping experience.
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Be.Bendigo engagement manager Jayson Tayeh said small businesses contributed a ‘tremendous’ amount to the city.
Despite the challenge retailers face, Mr Tayeh was very optimistic about the future success of retail in Bendigo.
“Worldwide online shopping has been a huge threat,” Mr Tayeh said.
“But what we have seen in Bendigo is retail really take on the challenge and revitalise what they do and what they have to offer customers.”
Mr Tayeh believed it was beneficial for stores to provide both an online and in-store physical experience.
“From providing an online service platform that really connects with customers and provides a good experience and service that is quick, easy and accessible.”
Be.Bendigo is a community network of members whose goal is to enhance business within the Greater Bendigo region.
‘We have a progressive shopping event coming up in Bendigo with several retailers from around the city who are looking at different ways to connect with their customers,” Mr Tayeh said.
One of the retailers is Kane Barri, owner of The Meadow which is located in the View Street arts precinct.
In regards to the current retail climate in the city Mr Barri believed the larger corporations were struggling more than small businesses.
“The smaller boutiques have our own identity so customers like coming in because they are served by similar people and we can talk about fashion and other things we like,” Mr Barri said.
“It’s still a hard game with online, but I think it’s the really big guys who would be struggling more so.”
There will be a progressive shopping event held on Sunday May 27 where shoppers will be provided with a ‘boutique’ shopping experience with food, refreshments, music and demonstrations.
Shoppers will have the opportunity to wander from the various stores involved in the event in a group of fellow attendees.
It is a ticketed event with proceeds to be donated to Haven; Home, Safe.
“We want to get a few retailers together and try and have an event that people can have a day out, raise money for charity and get back into stores to enjoy the retail shopping experience,” Mr Barri said.
For more information please visit https://www.bendigotourism.com/whats-on/next-7-days/event/23331-prog-shop-bendigo.
