Retailers need festive cheer

FOR many Far North retailers, the coming 35 days could prove pivotal towards any success – and even viability – over the coming 12 months.

Such is the importance of the “silly season”.

Santa Claus was spotted at Harvey Norman on Saturday, still more than one month until Christmas, meaning this particular Saint Nicholas still has his weight in candy canes to hand out.

Prices are starting to be slashed across stores large and small, with customer crowds growing by the day.

For local small businesses, the value of a strong Christmas trade is untold.

Many Far North store owners will no doubt be buoyed by Christmas spending projections, which estimate Queenslanders will spend a whopping $9.4 billion this year.

Given the exorbitant overheads and extensive red tape with which small business owners must grapple before trying to make ends meet, a poor festive season trade could potentially be disastrous.

According to business industry advocacy body CCIQ, more than 73 per cent of businesses said the rising cost of electricity was the “single most significant issue” ahead of this weekend’s State Election.

“Regardless of who forms the next Government, it is essential that they implement a policy program that addresses the issues of concern raised by small business,” said CCIQ general manager of advocacy, Kate Whittle.

Red tape was also one of the key issues discussed at last week’s election debate held in Cairns.

While many Far North cash registers will be red hot over coming weeks, business conditions must be made easier across the board. Hayden Smith hayden.smith@news.com.au