AS we approach the festive season, COVID-19 has had a major impact on retail trade, particularly so in the Greater Shepparton CBD.
From December last year through to the end of January, Greater Shepparton City Council introduced timed, complimentary parking in the Shepparton CBD. Traders and shoppers alike, agreed that it was a boon to shopping in the precinct.
According to surveys undertaken by the Greater Shepparton Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the time, Chamber president, John Anderson, said the survey showed both shoppers and businesses received relief for not having to pay for car parking.
“It was a reprieve for thousands of shoppers and not just for financial reasons, but also taking the stress out of shopping,” Mr Anderson said.
“The Chamber feels it has had a very positive effect on shopping in Shepparton. It has brought many people back to the CBD.”
Asked if the complimentary parking had a positive impact on business, nearly 93 percent of traders said that it had.
It is just the thing that is needed now with the added burden COVID-19 has impacted on the community.
