Sunbury businesses are uniting in a campaign to encourage residents to go local.
Several shops have jumped on board a co-operative fuel discount program that rewards customers for using small businesses.
Morgan’s IGA Supermarkets managing director Neal Morgan describes the program as being the independent, small business equivalent of those run by major chains.
“But it’s better,” he said.
The scheme seeks to beat chain stores at their own game by making the fuel discount cumulative, instead of a set amount per litre, and able to be redeemed after purchases at all fuel outlets. The discount accumulates with transactions at any participating local store.
“We’re trying to get other retailers on board,” Mr Morgan said. “Any small business can get on board and add their own discount.”
Morgan’s IGA Supermarkets, Positive Footwear and Save On Appliances are the local businesses currently involved in the scheme.
Sunbury Business Association treasurer Sylvia Unferdorben said residents supporting local businesses was crucial for Sunbury.
“Supporting local business is the only thing that’s important in Sunbury,” Ms Unferdorben said.
“If you don’t support local, a lot of the independent businesses that make up Sunbury will be lost and it will become like every other suburb.”
The discount program is administered by EasyFuel, a family business that works to promote local businesses in regions across Australia.
