Shoppers encouraged to try Katanning first

A new campaign has been launched to encourage Katanning residents to sample what local businesses have to offer before heading to larger towns or cities.

Try Local First is a program run by the Small Business Centre Great Southern and Katanning Regional Business Association.

KRBA committee member and co-owner of Mensworld clothing store Craig McKinley believes the initiative won’t just benefit businesses in town, but will also have a flow-on effect across the region.

“The more we spend locally the more likely it is the town will grow,” he said.

“Employment options will grow, more businesses can open, which will encourage more people to move to Katanning. It will keep money in the town.”

Ashley Brokenshire co-owns outdoor and pet accessory shop Swags ‘n’ Wags and said it was a good time to start the initiative.

“We have been needing a co-ordinated effort to reach out and educate the difference shopping in town makes to the local economy for some time,” he said

“A lot of people don’t even look in (local) shops and just head straight to Perth.

“Just give us a try, we need to be on the ball and we certainly appreciate the feedback. Katanning is a lot more competitive than it used to be, price wise and service wise.”

Retail is not the only sector involved with the program.

Locals are also encouraged to try health, education sectors and businesses such as hairdressers before looking elsewhere.

Southern Business Centre Great Southern manager Vicki Brown said it was vital local businesses were competitive against larger towns.

“The idea for the program came about as it was viewed the Buy Local First sounded like we were telling people where to shop,” she said.

“This time we are asking shoppers to give local businesses a go first before heading to a larger town or city like Albany or Perth.”

The shires of Kojonup, Kent, Gnowangerup, Broomehill-Tambellup, Dumbleyung and Woodanilling are also part of the buy local campaign.

Try Local First packs will start arriving in letter boxes soon.

They will contain a Try Local First sticker and a loyalty card to use in KRBA member shops.