Fears grow over small retailers in South Australia
The end of coronavirus restrictions might not be enough to save SA’s small traders, with more than a third revealing they believe their businesses will not survive the crisis.
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One in two small businesses in the accommodation, food and retail sectors don’t believe they will survive another three months of restrictions, a new survey has found.
Business SA is urging South Australians to look after “the little guy”, with fears smaller businesses will struggle to survive without significant support even when restrictions are lifted. Many retailers across the country closed doors or significantly reduced hours when social distancing and mass gathering rules were introduced in mid-March.
Business SA chief Martin Haese told The Advertiser there is only a small window of survival for many small businesses hit hardest by the economic impact of COVID-19.
“There will be widespread carnage if South Australians don’t get behind small local businesses in the immediate weeks once restrictions are eased,” Mr Haese said.
“We are asking South Australians to choose wisely.
“Think about your local florist, your family owned grocer, favourite restaurant, local pub, physiotherapist or hardware store.
“If you want them to be here next year, you need to support them now. A little goes a long way. Your choice to buy local will help our economy in the long run.”
Mr Haese said a recent survey by Business SA found 37 per cent of businesses had cast doubt on whether they could last another three months of restrictions.
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The survey results are from the March quarter Business SA – William Buck Survey of Business Expectations, which will be released in full next week.
Mr Haese said micro and small businesses were most likely going to be the hardest hit. Micro businesses have turnovers of less than $500,000. Small is less than $10 million.
“In the accommodation, food and retail sectors alone, the survey found 52 per cent said they would not survive a further three months of restrictions,” Mr Haese said.
“What we are seeing is the big boys are doing better and the small guys are suffering – particularly in the food and retail sectors. South Australians have a clear choice: Buy local to save your local.”
Owner of Shades and Opt Shop Optometry in Rundle Mall, Dennis Karis, encouraged South Australians to get behind the campaign.
“If you support local, you can keep the state alive and keep it well,” Mr Karis said.
“Please support your local businesses and independent retailers to ensure they survive the coming months. We’ve been here 35 years and we want to be around another 35 years.”