Shop ‘til you drop this Thursday

ARARAT’s business district will be buzzing with stores offering extended trading hours on Thursday 23 December, giving people more time to find a last-minute Christmas gift.

With only a week left to shop for the big day, Council has partnered with Greater Ararat Business Network (GABNetwork) and local retailers to bring residents ‘Shop ‘til you drop’ – a late-night shopping experience.

Selected retailers will also be offering a door prize just to say thank you for spending locally this festive season.

“Shop ‘til you drop is all about buying regionally and supporting local businesses – we’ve worked with retailers to extend trading hours to 8.30pm next Thursday (23 December),” Council CEO Tim Harrison said

“People like the convenience of online shopping but the wait for e-commerce deliveries may make people think twice about ordering online.

“With only a week to go, it’s a safe bet heading in-store and walking out with a gift for your loved ones or something for yourself,” he said.

“Our retailers have done it tougher than most, so people can feel good about knowing their dollars are spent locally,” Dr Harrison said.

Zest Living’s Marcia Parry is one retailer participating in the campaign.

“It’s a great opportunity for those who work or parents who are home with the kids to come out and take their time to do their shopping ,” she said.

“We really appreciate that Council and GABNetwork are backing us and helping us out too,” Ms Parry said.

GABNetwork President Maria Whitford is keen to bring everyone out for a late-night shopping event.

“Shop til you drop is a great way of checking off present shopping without any distractions – this way shoppers can browse without feeling rushed and leave knowing they have a gift sorted,” Ms Whitford said.

“Ararat’s retail precinct has a range of retailers ready to help you find everything you need for under the tree. We’d love to see everyone come down and support local businesses,” she said.