TAUPO RETAILERS BUCK NATIONAL TREND

Towncentre Taupo announced today that following an informal survey of the business district of Taupo, most businesses reported improved trading conditions compared with last year.

Representing more than 550 businesses in the Taupo Central Business District, Towncentre Taupo recently canvassed all members to ascertain if the retail recession was as hard-hitting as reported in the media.

“Whilst some of our members did report slightly worse trading results from last year, the overwhelming majority reported same as, if not better, trading in October 2008 vs October 2007,” said Towncentre Taupo Co-ordinator Kylie Cotter.

“The percentages varied, with one retailer reporting a 40% increase in turnover vs last October,” said Kylie. “Many reported that although there were less people around over Labour Weekend, those that were shopping spent more money in-store, resulting in a higher sales turnover than 2007.”

Feedback was also received from the trade sector, with one trade supplier reporting an 8% increase for this winter compared to last year.

“The general feeling seems to be that it isn’t all doom and gloom,” said Kylie. “One of our local Tuwharetoa St bars reported a 30% increase in their trading in October versus last year, and a liquor outlet recorded sales values for winter 2008 up 12% against 2007, and more importantly, customer numbers up by 13%.”

People are spending, and are loving shopping in Taupo said one retailer.

“We believe that Taupo businesses have the confidence of riding through any recession… and will be planning and adjusting overheads accordingly,” said Kylie. “What is most important though is that our local people support Taupo businesses, and continue to shop locally – especially in the lead up to Christmas.”