Traders
Departing Update – The iconic livestock stall (chickens and ducks) on Queen St.
traded for the last time on Saturday after what we believe was 45 years of trading.
A trader in K Shed also called it quits whilst we understand that at least two permanent
traders have asked to be transferred to the casual list.
CBD Report –
one customer reported that they had just ventured up from the CBD (late morning
on Saturday) and she believed we had a bigger crowd at the market than in the
city.
Big Screens –
a couple of traders are asking why we can’t have big screens at the market,
showing off major events like the Commonwealth Games. That would add to the
buzz, and give customers a nice interlude as they shopped. It could also
encourage them to shop longer.
Responsible
Trader – praiseworthy action by trader Noni when she spied a man stealing a
wallet from a leather accessory stall. She quickly retrieved the stolen item
from the culprit and then followed him closely to ensure he did not steal from
another trader before security arrived and escorted him from the market. That
is the sort of community oriented action we like to see from traders. The
number that traders can call to notify security is 0414550451.
140th
Anniversary Celebrations – One of our Market Officers is wondering who the
first trader will be to offer 140% discount as part of the 140th birthday
celebrations. Maybe we need to send him to that small business course entitled “How
not to go broke by giving away money.”
Betty
Jennings On QVM Board – Yes, our April Fool’s joke did get some reaction and we
can categorically dismiss the rumour that Betty has gone out and bought a silk
jacket and a big cigar.
School
Holiday Crowds – thanks to Joe for pointing out that whilst Victoria and
Queensland school holidays started last weekend, school holidays in every other
state start on 14th April so we have more visitors to look forward
to.
Will There Be A Feed-off
From Commonwealth Games? – Joe also pointed out that the Sydney Olympics didn’t
generate a lot of extra tourism in Melbourne after that event finished. Interestingly,
there was a newspaper article during the week suggesting that Gold Coast cafes
were reporting a 35% drop in business during the games. That probably makes
sense if visitors to the Gold Coast are focused on sporting events rather than
simple shopping. As always, attempting to predict retail trends can be a
minefield.
Council
Considers NMP Planning Permit – an application to vary the plans for the New
Market Pavilion with a smaller structure went before Council this week. Council’s
decision was to make "no decision at this time" which may reflect the Council operating
under an Acting Lord Mayor and an election coming up next month.