Entrepreneurs to share their ideas for eastern city

Suzie and Kiwi Johnson, who have played a major role in reinvigorating rural towns Shannon and Woodville, will be the guest speakers at the Hastings City Business Association AGM tonight.

Since 2007 they have developed five retail brands under the Oosh label and recently opened SEW Unlimited, a fashion manufacturing business in Ahuriri.

They have several brands, including Oosh, Oosh La La, Gallery 57, Oosh Hoof and For Frocks Sake.

Hastings City Business Association general manager Sharon Pearce said the presentation would provide incentives towards improving the Heretaunga St East retail block in the city.

"Suzie and Kiwi have first-hand experience and are familiar with the challenges we face in the East. I'm sure their insights will generate ideas for new retail opportunities and concepts.

"We have a chance to create something eclectic and special in the East and as an organisation we're looking forward to moving things forward."

Ms Pearce said the business association was taking a lead role in the redevelopment of the Eastern block which had faced many challenges in recent years including the lack of progress on The Albert Hotel site, which had been a key issue to securing new tenants and investment.

"We are finally gaining traction in the eastern blocks and it's fantastic to see landlords starting to invest in their buildings on this side of town. The old Power Board building is being converted into offices with APN relocating around 90 staff.

"Strengthening works are about to commence on the old WINZ building and are expected to be completed by the end of the year."

She said after many months of uncertainty, the Hastings cinema was also set to reopen soon.