West Aussies urged to shop at local small businesses for Christmas after ‘slowest retail year in 10 years’

West Australians are being urged to do their Christmas shopping at local small businesses as many struggle with competition from online retailers and penny pinching amid cost of living pressures. Jake Simmons, owner of North Perth indoor plant shop Two Green Men, likened the festive season to “the Super Bowl” for businesses like his. “It’s make or break for a lot of businesses, especially in a retail climate like now,” he said. “A lot of businesses around here have said it’s been possibly their slowest retail year in 10 years. “We are a little bit lucky, where we sell something that’s living so you actually can’t import it in WA. We’re one of the only States where you can’t do that, so that’s a big plus. “If we just had stayed a shop like we originally intended, we probably wouldn’t be here anymore.” Two Green Men has carved itself a niche specialising in terrariums, and offers workshops on how to make them and other living creations, with a big focus on gifting. “Everyone else has said it’s been a real struggle, and we might see less small businesses operating if it’s not a big Christmas for them,” Mr Simmons said. Small Business Minister Jackie Jarvis called on the community to shop local and back small business during their most critical trading period — and avoid the worry of delayed deliveries from online purchases. “On average, Australians spend over $700 at Christmas time on Christmas gifts,” she said. “You can just spend a percentage of that at your local small business. “You are making sure those small businesses thrive and are here for the coming year for you. “If you’re giving a gift card or a voucher, buy your voucher from a small business, give an experience like these amazing workshops that they have here (at Two Green Men).” Extended Christmas trading hours in the Perth metro area and some regional locations started on Saturday, with general retail stores able to open from 8am every day until 9pm on weekdays, and 6pm on weekends, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.