Shutting up shop in the provinces

Empty main street shops in towns around New Zealand reflected the government’s lack of support for small business according to National MP Jacqui Deans.

Acknowledging the concerns of many small communities across the country at the large and growing number of boardedup premises, she said towns should be positive, vibrant places, the closures showing the pressure small operators were under.

“Just this week retailers in Oamaru ¯ spoke out about the array of empty shops that line their main street, which has now reached 14,” Ms Dean said.

“Sadly, their concerns are being reflected across the country.

“Times are tough for small businesses, with online shopping and the presence of major chain stores having an impact, but the government must also take some responsibility here.

“Confidence among small businesses operators is consistently low. Many tell me they feel uncertain about the future, have concerns that the economy will deteriorate, and are in no mood to invest or grow their enterprises.

“Skilled staff are increasingly hard to find, the government’s industrial relations reforms are making people nervous, and costs keep increasing, including with the minimum wage set to rise on April 1.

“No one wants to see empty shops in their town — it does little to enhance the look of the area, and sends a negative message to visitors and locals alike, but nothing will improve until this government changes its economic policies and does more to support small business and regions across the New Zealand. Instead we’re seeing increasing signs that the economy is losing momentum and the jobless rate is rising.”