This month, two businesses in Rylstone will close their doors.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The relocation of a third store will see an additional 10 per cent of the town’s shop fronts empty.
The increasing vacancy rates spurred Mid-Western Regional councillor and Rylstone business owner, Peter Shelley to ask residents to buy local when they can
“Use them or lose them. No point complaining once they are gone” - was the mantra he posted to his Facebook followers.
The Mudgee Guardian’s story announcing the closures has sparked much debate on social media.
“Whether it be fuel or retail, the over inflated prices that get charged to the local community have got to be a contributing factor somewhat their own fault,” one follower posted on the Guardian’s Facebook page.
Another agreed: “Even certain local supermarkets charge like wounded Bulls ... Therefore it is worth the drive to the bigger ones.”
And it appeared some business people weighed in: “So our prices are too high? Therefore we are to blame somewhat? I think the problem extends across the region and can be attributed to many factors. The uncertainty of employment in our area plays a huge part. Times are tough, but I try to be optimistic that things will improve. I think my prices are quite reasonable considering everything is handmade individually. But I understand that people can’t justify spending at the moment. It’s a very complex issue.”
Correct. It is a complex issue but all that can be asked is you buy local whether possible otherwise be prepared to see more vacant shop fronts.