Locals need our support

When you look at the calendar and see that we are already 20 per cent through December, you are probably asking yourself, "How is it that the year has passed so fast?" As it has been with years past, the transition from October into the Christmas run has happened at breakneck speed. The Christmas paraphernalia has been up for some time now, so you are probably setting up for one last push before a well-deserved Christmas break.

Great, isn't it, that retailers have been advertising Christmas since late August because there is always the risk that we might forget December 25 - heaven forbid!

Okay, that is a poor attempt at sarcasm but this year's Christmas advertising appeared to start earlier. Everyone understands why, especially in these recessionary times, as retailers need that boost more than ever. Since my focus is on the Wanganui economy, I'd like to encourage you all to shop local this festive season. The avenue contains empty spaces and our retailers are doing it tough while Wanganui's economy deals with challenging times. Reminiscent of similar times in the 1980s.

Our retailers need the support of the wider community, so what better way to do that than choosing to shop here rather than driving to Palmerston North. Under our tree this year will be presents purchased from quality retailers located right here, rather than from some multinational based in a mall.

Naturally, apart from keeping money in the local economy, there will be other benefits by spending in Wanganui.

Definitely the first of these will be customer service. Countless times we have visited Palmy and spent much of the trip back discussing how the service over there is dwarfed by the care and attention given by most Wanganui retailers. Our retailers, for the most part, know how to look after their customers and create value - turning an interaction into a relationship.

Many of our out-of-town friends recount their shopping experiences with nothing but high praise - why would you travel 55 minutes when the best service is already here? Palmerston or New Plymouth may have a bigger Whitcoulls, but they don't have Paiges. Some big cities have Barkers staffed by students, but how many have the expertise and service of Andersons? And don't forget, we have the best cafes to chill out in when the Christmas list is complete.

Really, why wouldn't you do all of your Christmas shopping here? Okay, one more reason, festive spirit. Underneath the tinsel and the never-ending airplay of John Lennon's Christmas dirge, there is no better Christmas atmosphere than that which is generated in your home town with people you know and have dealt with for the entire year.

Delay or cancel your trip to Palmy and give local retail businesses your custom. Without doubt you won't regret the decision and the local economy will benefit.