By Jonty Ralphsmith
The Berwick and Beaconsfield Chamber of Commerce Committee is launching the Local First program on Friday 18 March at 3pm.
The program was developed by local business owners on the committee and Friday is the third attempt to launch the program after Covid-19 related delays.
For safety and convenience, the launch will now take place over zoom.
Stuart Benjamin, chair of the Victorian Small Business Ministerial Council and director of Elmstone Property Group will be in attendance on Friday as members celebrate a renewed focus towards shopping and connecting with services in Berwick and Beaconsfield and learn about how individual businesses can benefit.
Participation in the program promotes one’s business all day, everyday and provides businesses with a one-year free membership with the Chamber.
Retailers, hospitality venues, trades and service businesses are provided with a high exposure website to promote current offers and a unique QR code on display in store for customers to retain the offer.
Shopping locally benefits the local economy and as a result of the promotion through Local First, more awareness of retail, hospitality, trades and services will occur, reminding locals of what they have in Berwick and Beaconsfield.
Local First was funded by the Victorian Chamber Grants program in 2021 and the $10 000 grant enabled a platform to be created that would bring together businesses and residents through the promotion of offers and incentives to enhance the focus for shopping locally.
For more information, click the following link: localfirst.org.au/localfirst-explainer/
