Buzz and boost for city, economy

An influx of visitors flooding Albany over the festive season has provided a welcome injection of spending into the local economy, according to Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The influx of visitors to the region created a buzz and proved to be a financial gain for the business community.

ACCI acting chief executive Michael Clark said the annual boost was one of Albany’s busiest times of the year with the combination of residents and visitors shopping locally.

“This boost helps all businesses in Albany directly and indirectly, tourism in this town injects dollars into more businesses than most people realise — from restaurants to your local tyre store to a local fruit and veg store,” he said.

“All are boosted because of visiting tourists to Albany.” Cruise ships docking in Albany also proved beneficial for the economy with several ships docking in the port in a week.

Mr Clark said aside from the ships boosting business they created a lively atmosphere for the town.

“The atmosphere was buzzing with local market stalls, street performers, and CBD businesses welcoming visitors and there were also bus tours available to showcase Albany and allow the benefits to flow on to businesses outside the CBD,” he said.

“With the cruise ship numbers set to double, proactive Albany businesses will see direct benefits.”

Mr Clark said he believed the economy in Albany had been steady for the past 12 months.

“In a survey carried out by ACCI, members stated in comparison to the previous year, the majority of businesses are sitting about the same,” he said.

“It has not all been doom and gloom, some industries have struggled but there were often other contributing factors than just the economy.

“We all need to look at our businesses, ACCI included, to make sure we stay relevant and make sure we appeal to the people of Albany; a boost is always needed to help business grow and to keep the economy growing.”