'Tis the season for spending big money and spreading good cheer...which are themes I intend to stick with in this week's column.
Have you noticed how much more shopping people are doing this year when compared to the last few years? I have. I ask retail members every chance I get, "How are sales going this season?" and everyone I talk to has the same story: sales are up. Not just up, but up significantly. The last dozen retailers I spoke with have seen increases to revenues by 15 per cent or more during November, compared to 2011. They comment that shoppers seem more confident and are splurging on higher end items when given a range of products to choose from.
To support my observations in local spending increases, I note the success of local fundraisers this year like Spirit of the North's Festival of the Trees. With a record breaking bid of $52,500 for Bea's Tree during the live auction at the Gala on Saturday, as well as over $310,000 raised in total, this has been a stellar year of spending for many businesses and organizations. News of spending increases is definitely the 'good cheer' that we've been missing for many years now; we are finally seeing the light at the end of the recession tunnel.
Something else to look forward to before 2013 is the Chamber Top 40 Under Forty print publication, which will be arriving in member's mailboxes over the next couple of weeks. Featuring the top 40 professionals from Prince George, this magazine is a true celebration of the amazing individuals who choose to work and live in our blossoming city. Flipping through the pages, some of the faces will be recognizable while others may not; however, in the years to come, the Top 40 will be among the leaders making things happen all around us.
And finally, if you are a business person, wanting to celebrate the season while taking a break from work, the Chamber hopes you will join us for our Holiday Block Party Open house taking place on December 13 from 2 to 5 p.m. Share some snacks and good company with others in the Chamber community as we wrap up 2012. Non-members are welcome to stop by to learn more about how Chamber membership can help you grow and develop your business. Visit www.pgchamber.bc.ca to RSVP for all our events.
Until next time, stay in the black and keep coming back.
Jennifer Brandle-McCall is CEO of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce.
