Retailers and Restaurateurs Ready

Dunedin members of the Otago Chamber of Commerce and Hospitality Association of New Zealand are making the most of Rugby World Cup 2011.
Chamber chief executive John Christie and Association Otago Branch President Mark Scully spoke after local ticket sales were released showing high numbers of national and international visitors coming to Dunedin.
They say the numbers are fantastic, and represent an unheard of opportunity for Dunedin businesses to benefit with only a little extra effort.
Mr Christie says the Chamber has been working with retailers to open longer, make their premises look inviting, and welcome visitors to the city
“Retailers are really excited about the sales opportunities this Tournament offers them, after a quiet winter period,” he says.
“Many are planning to stay open late on the nights matches start at 8.30pm, to make the most of the numbers of people in the central city area. These include the three major malls in George Street who have modified their opening hours for the first weekend:

• Meridian Mall Fri 9 Sept 9am – 9pm Sat 10 Sept 9am – 7pm
• Wall Street Mall Fri 9 Sept 9am – 8pm Sat 10 Sept 10am – 7pm
• Golden Centre Mall Fri 9 Sept 9am – 8pm Sat 10 Sept 10am – 7pm

“Ideally, we’d like main street retailers to stay open late, and to leave their lights on post-match so the street looks vibrant”, he added.
“At least one major retailer is also offering tax free goods to visitors, given they provide evidence of a return flight and allow the items to be sent home for them.”
Restaurants, cafes and bars are also relishing the opportunity, says Mr Scully. Many have applied for extended licenses and are extending their premises into the street, particularly in the city centre.
However, this will mean a change of normal operations in the kitchens he says. Many people, particularly on days the matches start at 6pm, will be looking to eat later in the evening than food operators would expect. Or they would want to eat pre-game for the 8.30pm kick-off matches, making that part of the night busy.
“It’s nothing we can’t cope with, but we need to be planning for that change.”