Earlier this year, the Tourism and Economic Development teams asked business, events and industry across the region for their feedback on Council’s present approach to marketing and business development, and what could be improved. After receiving over 80 response, the following has been determined:
- Business confidence for the next financial year by our operators is at 43%
- 63% of people say this year was worse than previous years
- Biggest challenges to our businesses reported in the last 12 months:
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- Economic downturn / cost of living
- Reduced marketing and visitors
- Increased expenses – staff, insurance, etc.
- Lack of funding support
- Red tape – DA speed, etc.
- Local infrastructure – roads, etc.
- Top 5 free business support and services from the ED and Tourism office as rated by our businesses:
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- Networking / presentations by staff in region
- Free photography and videography
- Advocacy to state and federal government
- Sharing grant opportunities and letters of support
- Sponsorship of events
- Top 5 promotional support activities undertaken by the ED and Tourism office as rated by our businesses:
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- Paid social media marketing
- Publicity and journalist visits
- Digital marketing such as via shoalhaven.com
- Visitor Guide
- Monthly Consumer Newsletter
- 96% of respondents believe that events are economic drivers for the region with food and wine, then music rating at the top of the type of events.
See the full data breakdown here.
The team are using this data to guide their activities moving forward. We understand that the current climate is adversely impacting businesses, and are here to help in any way we can – please feel free to reach out.
