Commerce shouts out for struggling stores

WITH roadworks throughout the city’s south, Commerce Ballarat is giving a shoutout to businesses along one affected thoroughfare.

Since early July, the organisation has been spotlighting enterprises along Albert Street in Sebastopol that are affected by construction partitions and redirected traffic.

Commerce Ballarat CEO Jodie Gillett said with roadworks ongoing, it’s essential everyone lends a hand.

“It is an incredibly difficult time for them down there and our community can make a difference just by going a little out of their way to make a purchase,” she said.

“We saw this so much throughout the pandemic, that sense of community supporting local and caring, and it has a really positive impact on a business in crisis.

“We’ll keep talking about the Albert Street traders until a sense of normality returns for them.”

A video profile on one of the businesses will be released each week via Commerce Ballarat’s social media pages, and Ms Gillett said the effort aims to keep the affected operations “front of mind” for the community.

Those unable to support the businesses in person could purchase gift vouchers on offer as part of the campaign.

Tracey Nunn, owner of Curbside Coffee Cafe in Albert Street, said the campaign has benefited her greatly.

“My income dropped by $95,000 from the end of February until now. I’ve got two fulltime workers down from eight as a direct result of these works,” she said.

“Since the campaign, we’ve had more publicity and interaction. Over the last couple days alone, business has picked up and people are noticing what’s happening.

“They’re refreshing people’s minds in letting them know we’re here, don’t drive past, there are still entrances and exits to get in.”