BUSINESS dreams have come true thanks to short-term leases to revitalise empty CBD shops.
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It follows Start-Up Space Incubator Workshops in June in line with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s commitment to support small business and drive economic growth.
They were designed to encourage discussion on how short-term leases on vacant business premises can lead to longer term benefits.
At least two CBD businesses – Beeline Toys and Spoiler Alert! – are the result.
Sheena and Ken Prince opened Beeline Toys in Clarence Street after starting off at the markets and then going online.
Mrs Prince said opening a shop was something they had wanted for a long time but signing a long-term lease was a big commitment.
She said the workshop fired them up with the confidence to approach a landlord and negotiate a shorter lease with the view it would become long-term.
“It has given us that great opportunity to get a start, to test the waters and test the location,” Mrs Prince said.
Landlord Chris Baker said they were more than happy to work with the Princes to come up with a good outcome.
Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Peter Besseling said it was a great opportunity for landlords to at least get a short-term tenant with the view to a long-term tenancy.
“It is a great opportunity for a new business who may wish to start up and to not have the impediment of a long-term lease,” he said.
Geek retail and community gaming hub Spoiler Alert! is preparing to open after building on opportunities from the workshop.
Experienced online retailers Emily and David Kinney joined forces with Kerry-Ann Weirick O’Donnell and Joseph O’Donnell to create Port Macquarie’s first geek retail and community gaming hub.
They combined visions and made the most through a short-term lease in the Ritz Centre.
The shop will be an inclusive and safe space where people can feel comfortable.
For more information on the initiative contact the council on 6581 8111.