PRO Subi has had a promising early response to its new gift card program that has become a first for main street shopping areas in Australia.
“About 300 of the cards were purchased in the three weeks leading up to Christmas, with an average spend of $80,” Pro Subi executive director Michael Janiec said.
“It’s been encouraging as it’s just the start of the program.
“We’re working on a dedicated push to give it more exposure and to drive more business into |Subiaco.”
A non-profit body that works to raise the profile of businesses in Subiaco, Pro Subi launched the card program last month.
The public can buy the cards, starting at $25, from several local news agencies or online and use them at more than 350 businesses in Subiaco that have an EFTPOS machine.
Pro Subi awarded a series of $1000 gift cards to five lucky winners including Amy Papalia, Jemma Cassidy, Karen Taylor as part of last month’s Subi Street Festival promotion.
The three women recently dropped into participating gift card retailer Dallimores to look at some of the store’s wide range of homewares. Developing the gift card program took about 18 months and Pro Subi soon hopes to attract commercial clients to buy cards for staff incentive or recognition programs.
“It’s good for retailers.” Mr Janiec said.
“It was created to generate more interest in local stores during the quiet time after Christmas in January and February.
“So far, we have found that predominantly the cards are used at retailers, but there’s also been the convenience of spending at supermarkets or for petrol.”
Retailers involved in the program vary from restaurants, cinemas and cafes to hairdressers.