CONSUMER spending in Bega is expected to remain strong over the period leading up to Christmas.
Despite the unpredictability of the global economy, a number of leading businesses are expecting good sales in the next month.
One factor that has increased optimism among business owners is the recent $3.9 billion financial boost across the nation, which comes into effect next Monday.
Families, pensioners, veterans, seniors and carers will have more money in their pockets and with Christmas looming consumer spending could peak.
Robert Hayson from Flet-chers Fotographics said he expected sales to be around the same level as last year.
“I expect there to be positive growth and sales will still be good because even now, spending is still consistent,” he said.
“I believe the benefit will bring some sales for us.
“With the money, some people put it towards credit cards, pay off bills and buy Christmas presents.”
Co-owner of Betta Electrical, Brendan Buckley, said Decem-ber was the biggest month of the year for the business.
“Spending right now is about the same as last year,” he said.
“We are hoping to come out similar but I think it might be a bit down.”
Mr Buckley said the benefit would give consumers a bit more money in their posckets.
“It means they can buy Christmas presents from us or replace old appliances,” he said.
According to Bega Magpie Music owner Liz Broomfield, the financial benefit had generated a lot of interest from people she knew.
“I think sales will be subject to the extra money,” she said.
“The Christmas rush is just starting and things are travelling a bit slower than last year because of the economic situation.”
Ms Broomfield said the instability of the global economy had affected everyone, including business suppliers.
“But we’re confident there will be a turn around and we’re happy enough.”
At Priceline Pharmacy in Bega, owner Sietel Singh Gill said he expected sales to be higher than in 2007.
“We’re well positioned with products by offering an extensive range at an affordable price,” he said.
Mr Gill said it was difficult to predict whether the introduction of the benefit would make a difference to the amount of sales.
“It possibly could benefit us but it is difficult to predict,” he said.
“I think the factor on our side is it’s better for someone to treat themselves with $10-$15 than break the budget.”
Sportspower manager Troy Burhop said he didn’t feel confident in the lead up to the Christmas period.
“With the state of the economy currently, you don’t who is getting all the money,” he said.
“There is less activity right now than in the past.”
Mr Burhop said there would be a late boost in sales just before Christmas.
“Undoubtedly the benefit will help out,” he said.
“I think we will see a late run just before Christmas because I think people are unsure how to spend their money right now.”
Mitre 10 store manager Ron Wall said the sales hike in his store was not as big as it used to be.
“Lay-bys are coming back into the vogue and are very popular because people can pay in advance,” he said.
“But we’re finding that business is pretty reasonable and right now and we are happy enough.”
Mr Wall said he believed the Government’s financial boost was unproven at this stage.
“But I think it will come into play by the New Year,” he said.
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