The NSW Nationals in Government are encouraging retailers to list their details on the new Buy Regional hub, which is connecting metropolitan shoppers with rural and regional small businesses in the lead-up to Christmas.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the Buy Regional campaign was an online hub showcasing regional shops and sellers together in one place, to make it easy for shoppers to both find the perfect Christmas gift and support regional NSW.
Sydneysiders are being encouraged to visit www.nsw.gov.au/buyregional and browse six categories: Wine, Fashion, Food, Gifts for Kids, Art & Design and Christmas hampers, to find gifts for their friends and family and support regional NSW towns.
“Regional businesses can participate in the Buy Regional hub and social media network for free, so people wanting to help can give retailers in drought-stricken areas the present they want most this Christmas – customers,” Mr Singh said.
“We’ve recently seen the great success of online communities like #buyfromthebush, and the Buy Regional hub is bringing all of these fantastic initiatives together to provide an easy-to-browse directory of regional businesses.
“The Buy Regional hub includes information to help local businesses create an online presence if they choose to, but there’s no reason why you can’t list your details and take orders over the phone or via email.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said Sydneysiders were also being encouraged to buy meat, produce and hampers from regional NSW for festive get-togethers and Christmas Day feasts.
“We’re telling Sydneysiders to favour the flavour of regional NSW and ask their butchers and greengrocers for meat, poultry and produce provided by NSW farmers or to check out the Buy Regional hub for honey, preserves, veg, meat or even fully-stocked hampers, all sourced locally,” Mr Barilaro said.
“People want to help and Buy Regional is providing a very simple but effective method of showcasing regional businesses to a large audience with Christmas gift dollars that they’re ready to spend.”
