Increased uptake in the Why Leave Town Deni Gift Cards has been outlined as one of the major highlights for the Deniliquin Business Chamber in 2024.
At its AGM last week, chamber executive officer Kate Pitt revealed that almost $100,000 in gift cards were purchased between November last year and October this year.
Ms Pitt said it’s almost double the 2023 figure, and a huge improvement on 2022.
The gift cards are used like a pre-paid debit card, but can only be spent at local businesses who opt into the program.
“From February 1, 2022 to October 31, 2022 we sold 214 gift cards with a value of $12,680, and from February 1, 2023 to October 31, 2023 we sold 498 gift cards with a value of $55,210,” Ms Pitt said.
“From November 1, 2023 to October 31 this year we have sold 870 cards with a total value of $96,145.
“The average spend on a gift card in the last 12 months is about $100, which is a large increase in the average spend per card.
“We currently have $30,279 in unspent gift cards, so we encourage people to get shopping before they expire.”
Ms Pitt said the value of cards sold in 2024 is almost half the value of the total cards sold in the first six years of the program, which in 2022 was reported at $219,000.
And to better accommodate the way people use the cards, a digital gift card is now being made available by chamber.
“This year, the Why Leave Town program introduced its long-awaited digital card, which means that businesses who have terminals such as square can now participate.
“It is a very easy process for busy people who cannot get to a venue to purchase a physical card, as the digital cards can be purchased online and sent immediately via text or email to the recipient.
“There is a list of all participating business on our Facebook page and on our website, and on the Why Leave Town website - www.whyleavetown.com.”
Other successful chamber initiatives included a host of community events, the 2024 Deniliquin Business Excellence Awards, and business specific events.
Outgoing chamber president Paula Rutter highlighted chamber’s first Tradie Night, which was well attended and was the platform for the launch of the inaugural Outstanding Construction/ Trade Apprentice of the Year - Will McKern Scholarship for the Deniliquin Business Excellence Awards.
She also spoke to the success of the inaugural A-MAY-zing Weekend and the Do It in Deni Street Bazaar, this year moved to November instead of March.
She said based on feedback so far, it may return in November next year.
Mrs Rutter also highlighted the “opportunities to collaborate and network” through Coffee with Chamber, member meetings, Business After Hours and online business training opportunities.
“Edward River Tourism Operator Breakfast, International Women's Day, Spirit of the Muster are just a few of the other fantastic events that we have been proud to collaborate with over the year.
“The Deni Business Chamber will continue to encourage participation in all of these events and offerings, as we know connectivity and engagement is what will help to make Deniliquin prosperous.
“We will again support festive season shopping and the fun Christmas lights competition which we know promotes our town.”
Mrs Rutter said efforts this year culminated in chamber being recognised on regional and state stages this year.
“The Deniliquin Business Chamber continues to punch well above its weight.
“We were honoured to have been awarded Local Chamber of the Year at the 2024 NSW Regional Business Awards.
“Although we were unsuccessful at the state awards, I couldn't be more proud to be part of such a wonderful organisation.”
While events and programs have been a success, chamber’s AGM reports did highlight that membership has dropped in 2024. It has contributed this to the cost of living pressures.
The chamber also recognised that it must increase its revenue stream to continue offering events and learning opportunities for member businesses.
Leading chamber in this endeavour is a new-look committee, led by new president Angela Parker.
Other executive members include vice president Karen Azzopardi, Mrs Rutter as treasurer and executive members Helen Flisher, Daniel Webb, Iain Goodway and Jess Kitchin.
For more information on chamber initiatives and how to become a member, go to www.deniliquinchamber.com.au or contact the team on 0447 812 621 or admin@deniliquinchamber.com.au.