As Aussie makers and retailers are trying to navigate their current environment, it’s now more important than ever to support Aussie businesses.
To help the growing number of Australian businesses finding themselves working remotely, Australian Made licensee, frank green, has teamed up with local cafe, ST ALi, to create an exclusive gift set containing a frank green ceramic reusable cup and a bag of ST ALi’s famous coffee.
“We’ve done our best to understand the changing needs of our customers at this uncertain time, as we’ve moved to remote working ourselves and know the challenges of isolation we’re all facing,” says Benjamin Young, founder and CEO of frank green.
“So it was important to us to create something that connects individuals and allows companies to show how much their employees are valued and appreciated.
“Supporting a fellow Aussie business (and long-time partner) in ST Ali was the perfect partner for us to come together to engage our customers at home.”
Australian Made Retail supporter, Handmade Canberra, moved its March market online so it could still continue to support Australian producers. The virtual market was a huge success offering shoppers access to unique handmade products from the comfort of their home.
“We’re thrilled that 24,000 people visited our virtual market over the weekend,” says managing director, Julie Nichols.
“Handmade is continuing to look for ways to support our Australian-made businesses during this difficult time. We love that our new and valued customers had the opportunity to enjoy our market over the weekend in some capacity.”
Participant Renee Tilley, owner of Paudha Healing, says the virtual market was a great success. “Our website traffic was up, with over 70 per cent of users visiting from Handmade Canberra directly, leading to a massive 360 per cent increase in online revenue.
“We also gained access to many new customers, even one from the UK, and were able to increase in our social media following. It means so much to us as a business, especially in such a challenging time.”
Australian businesses need all the support they can get, says Australian Made Campaign executive, Ben Lazzaro.
“It is a difficult time for all, with many businesses restricted in some way and Australians facing the challenges of self-isolation and social distancing. We are calling on consumers to exercise their preference for Australian products and buy local. Now more than ever, our Aussie businesses need your support.
“When you buy Australian Made products, you are supporting the broader Australian economy as a whole. From local growers and manufacturers to wholesalers and retailers, the flow-on effects from your purchases can be huge.”
