Greater Geraldton Buy Local Gift Card program generates $150,000 economic boost in eight months

A buy local gift card campaign launched eight months ago has resulted in more than $150,000 being injected into the local community.

The City of Greater Geraldton’s Buy Local gift card program has been one of the most successful of its kind nation-wide and the scheme continues to go from strength to strength.

Mayor Shane Van Styn said the result to date was an “unbelievable milestone” and he praised locals for embracing the initiative.

“This achievement is all thanks to the wonderful businesses who came on board, as well as all the local shoppers who have continued to purchase the cards,” he said.

“Without them, $150,000 could have potentially been spent online or elsewhere. Instead, that money has gone directly into our local economy, where we know the flow-on effects to our community benefits everyone.

“I thank all the locals who have helped us get to this milestone and I encourage everyone to consider supporting the program when you’re thinking about buying your next gift.”

The program, launched last September, has had more than 80 businesses come on board as redemption stores.

The gift cards are an EFTPOS-based system which promotes spending in Greater Geraldton to ensure money stays in the community and contributes to economic growth.

From retail to restaurants, automotive services, cleaners and everything in between — the gift cards offer users an array of local businesses to support.

The buy local gift cards are available at IGA’s Rigters, Queens and Wonthella stores, Mitchell and Brown Retravision, Cellarbrations Bottle Shops, Ivy Vibe, Sportsfirst Geraldton and online.

For more information about the scheme, visit cgg.wa.gov.au/business/buy-local-gift-cards/buy-local-greater-geraldton-gift-card.aspx.