Wanganui's business community is doing no worse than any other in New Zealand, the owner of Ambrosia Delicatessen maintains.
Nevanah Turner set up her Ridgway St business in 2008 and recently expanded it, establishing a cafe, La Bolsa Negra, in the vacant shop next door.
Ms Turner said being frugal had helped her business succeed, despite the current economic climate.
Although she was aware of a few people who were struggling, Ms Turner said many were doing well, which was the scenario in cities throughout the country.
The business has built a reputation for quality and variety in its range of local and international food products.
It employs nine local staff, six more than when it began operating four years ago.
Ms Turner learnt to make coffee at 16 while working at the Espresso Coffee Lounge in Victoria Ave.
She returned from Wellington in 1997 and established Amadeus Riverbank Cafe with her sister, Angie Cawley.
During the seven years she co-owned that cafe, Ms Turner said she needed to travel to source the food products she wanted to use.
That inspired the business she now runs. Together, the staff at Ambrosia have more than 50 years' experience in the food business. Ms Turner expected the usual boost in custom associated with the season. "It helps that everyone has to eat."