Can’t put a price on Boxing Day sales

Greater Shepparton Business Network president Stephen Schneider said it was a great day to support businesses in the area.

“The Boxing Day sales are an excellent reason for people to invest in their local community,” Mr Schneider said.

“Visiting both the marketplace and the plaza, there’s some exceptional value available.

“The support of the local community with their local businesses is hugely important.”

He said the business network acknowledged it had been a hard year for customers and companies alike, but the new year could turn a new leaf.

“It’s been a challenging year, but we’re all hoping for 2025 to bring some stability,” he said.

Mr Schneider said that his business, Stephen’s Jewellers, had a busy morning, but the heat was a deterrent.

“Business has been quite brisk, our Shepparton Marketplace store is open today and there’s a lot of foot traffic, but the warm weather in the afternoon may keep people inside,” he said.

On Maude St, Arcade Fashion staff member Lirie Sali said turnout had been strong for the store’s sales.

“It’s been good, we’ve got a good sale on today,” she said.

“Everyone’s been out in the morning as it’s getting hot later in the day.

“(As a local business) it’s important we are open, and we provide this service.”

Looking at Corio St, Trelly’s Outdoors owner Steven Threlfall said the day had been full of shoppers.

“It’s mad, just crazy busy,” Mr Threlfall said.

“Shopping before Christmas is a labour of love, Boxing Day is about you — you’re shopping for yourself.

“It’s a real fun time of year. Shopping for yourself and finding a good deal.”

He echoed the importance of shopping local, saying that keeping the local economy going by supporting small businesses was “really important”.