Kaya,
December is upon us. Santa and his Elves are finalizing their gifts to distribute around the world and preparing the reindeer for the mammoth task ahead again this year. Different nationalities all over the world will be celebrating and recognising different days and reasons of significance. No matter what your reason or religious beliefs, BGCCI staff and executive committee wishes everyone in our community a very happy and safe festive season.
What does acknowledgement and appreciation mean to you? A thank you for a job well done, a pat on the back or a handshake, bonus or financial reward in recognition of your efforts? For many people who want to make a difference in their life, the end of a year can bring mixed emotions. Have I done enough? Could I have done more? For me, knowing that I have contributed and made a positive difference gives me an energy injection. It keeps me going and helps stoke the fires of motivation and enthusiasm.
As we move into the busy period of Christmas parties and end of year sundowners please take some time to ‘pay it forward’, think about all the people who have contributed to your success this year. Acknowledgement and appreciation are the cheapest gift in the world – and the gift is in the giving and it won't cost you anything. Take the time to thank the people who have made a positive impact in your life.
I received a letter from Santa last week, letting me know that Charlie and Charlotte, the Chamber Elves will be visiting us from next week. From the 1st December we will be making our rounds, visiting local businesses and seeing what shenanigans we can get up to. Last year was fun and we got to meet many of the BGCCI members. If you'd like a visit from Charlie and Charlotte this year with all photos and promotions to be shared on BGCCI social pages (3,500+) please reach out and let us know to put you on the ‘good’ list.
BGCCI is working with the City of Bunbury, Retail & Co and Hon Don Punch MLA to support Christmas in the Bunbury CBD with a Xmas Window Competition. This year we will have two categories, Traditional and Innovative. There will be first, second & third prize in each category. We will also be engaging with the community to vote on the People’s Choice Award! Make sure you put the City of Bunbury on your shopping list this Christmas to see our magical city come to life.
The success and sustainability of small business plays a critical role in the future prosperity of this region. Small businesses are operated by local people. People who set up a business because they are passionate about what they do. Small businesses are owned by Mum’s and Dad’s, families and individuals who have invested everything they have in something they truly believe in, all of which comes with risk. If a small business is not successful, they can’t put food on the table, the success of small business is fundamental to a thriving economy.
With more than 40% of all private sector jobs created by small business and the current reality of the labour shortage being experienced across the region, small businesses are finding this a particularly difficult time. As you shop and patron local stores this festive season, remember to be patient and kind. Businesses are doing the best they can right now with limited resources.
The way we shop influences what is available in our local community. Small businesses keep the large and global corporations more competitive. When a small business disappears - so does our diversity and variety. We can't afford that. Think about the passionate entrepreneurs, butchers, mechanics, artists, accountants, gardeners, interior designers, foodies, personal trainers, printers (the list goes on!) in our local community and remember to think small first. Unless we support small business by buying locally, the money that we spend leaks from our economy and is not reinvested.
Over the festive season explore the local area; with such a wide range of retail, tourism and hospitality offerings here in the South West, your adventure will be helping support many local businesses.
