Retail expert’s dire warning if we let coronavirus cause death of Tassie’s small businesses #togetherfortassie

“We’ve got to do everything we can”: Retail researcher Louise Grimmer says people power is vital to keeping Tasmanian small businesses afloat during the coronavirus crisis

LIFE as we know it will be “decimated” if Tasmanians do not step up to ensure the survival of local shops, salons and eateries, a business expert says.

Retail researcher Louise Grimmer, from the University of Tasmania’s school of business and economics, said people power was vital to keeping microbusinesses afloat during the coronavirus crisis.

Retail researcher Louise Grimmer. Picture: MATT THOMPSON

“It’s unthinkable to me if we lose our local retailers. Our way of life will be decimated,” Dr Grimmer said.

“We’ve got to do everything we can to keep them in business. If you were going to buy something on Amazon, call your local bookshop instead and ask if they have it.

“If you are on social media you can help by sharing businesses’ posts, liking their posts, leaving a review, looking at what they are selling online.”

TALKING POINT: GRIMMER — STIMULUS FALLS SHORT FOR RETAILERS

WHAT IS THE #TOGETHERFORTASSIECAMPAIGN?

The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched a Back Tasmanian Business campaign, encouraging locals to buy something from a local business every day, be it takeaway dinner, a coffee or holiday.

Michael Bailey. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

“We have restaurants offering home delivery and cafes doing drive-by coffees, things that five days ago we would have thought was crazy,” TCCI chief executive Michael Bailey said.

“Let’s make sure we keep money flowing through the local community. The great thing about being an island state is we are able to shut our borders and it makes it easy to travel the state and support our Tasmanian tourism operators.

“What a great opportunity to experience the Tasmania we know the world wants to see.”

SLUMPING TASSIE TRADERS TURN TO DELIVERY MARKET

After years of researching the impact of online shopping on small businesses, Dr Grimmer said it was ironic that online shopping could end up being their saviour.

“We’re going to be facing this isolation for quite a few months and online shopping might be what keeps retailers afloat,” she said.

“Stores not selling online need to get that capability now more than ever. If they don’t have an online store they could start by posting photos of products on their social media page and saying ‘we’re taking calls’.”

Call the business support line for advice 1300 559 112.

If you have a story of kindness, caring idea or know a Tasmanian doing good deeds, please get in touch with us on Facebook or use the hashtag #togetherfortassie on social media.