Central Geelong businesses ready for Black Friday bonanza

CENTRAL Geelong businesses are strapping in for bumper-to-bumper sales on both Black Friday and Cyber Monday this weekend.

Mayor Stephanie Asher said city-run campaign Love Central Geelong is offering free entertainment and experiences for shoppers to enjoy as well special offers and bargains at Central Geelong businesses.

“Now’s the perfect time to kick start your Christmas shopping with this fabulous weekend of sales and fun,” Cr Asher said.

“Christmas is the important time of year for retailers so we hope shoppers will visit the sales to grab a bargain while supporting local jobs and businesses.

“We thank everyone in our region who has got the vaccination so that businesses can throw open their doors in time for Christmas celebrations and shopping.”

It is expected that Victorians will spend an estimated $15.4 billion during the pre-Christmas sales period, a 1.3 per cent increase from 2020 and significantly higher than periods prior to COVID-19.

Prior to COVID-19, the city’s Christmas program generated an estimated $18.5 million in economic activity and attracted more than 330,000 visitors.

Christmas shopping comes at an opportune time following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions across the state according to Economic Development portfolio chair, Cr Peter Murrihy.

Cr Murrihy said the removal of caps and density limits for fully vaccinated people makes it a great time to enjoy shopping in town.

“Retailers can make up to two thirds of their profits for the year at Christmas so you just can’t underestimate the importance of Christmas sales,” Cr Murrihy said.

“We’d love to see a post-lockdown bounce in sales for our hard-working retailers.

“Shoppers haven’t had the opportunity to visit stores during lockdowns, so we want to help them enjoy free entertainment while supporting local jobs and businesses.”

Black Friday is on November 26 and Cyber Monday is on Monday, November 29, forming Love Central Geelong’s Black Friday Festival over the weekend.

For more information visit centralgeelong.com.au.