Brisbane City charms shoppers back to help boost COVID-struck retailers

RETAIL discounts, live music, fresh food and chilled drinks are all part of a three-day Brisbane shopping festival that aims to boost CBD businesses and encourage local and visitor support.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the popular Shop BNE City is returning for three days starting this Friday, tempting shoppers back to the Queen Street Mall as it continues to rebuild following the economic impacts of the global coronavirus pandemic.

“Queen Street Mall was one of the shopping precincts hardest hit by coronavirus, with a severe downturn in foot traffic hurting inner-city traders,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Shop BNE City is bringing out all the stops to encourage residents and visitors to head into the city to dine, drink and shop with a whirlwind three-days of exclusive retail discounts, pop-up bars and live entertainment. 

“To ease the holiday blues, Next Hotel will open its pool up to the general public, transforming into an urban oasis with live music and food and drink offers, while Jimmy’s on the Mall will transform into an Italian-inspired garden," Cr Schrinner said.

“Queen Street Mall will feature retro themed departure lounges, while the Wintergarden will put local musicians front and centre at the City Sounds Live Music Stage.”

Cr Schrinner said Shop BNE City was now entering its fifth year, but believed this year was "the most important event to date".

“Our local businesses are crying out for support and as a city we need to all do our part and buy local,” he said.

“Coronavirus forced many businesses to shut their doors earlier this year, but their doors are back open and they are ready to welcome people back.

“Events like this are a great incentive to draw people back into our retail and entertainment precinct and to give our local traders the support they need and deserve as they get back on track post coronavirus," Cr Schrinner said.

“With Christmas around the corner, this is a perfect time to get organised and get in early to do some Christmas shopping and take advantage of over 70 exclusive offers that will be available over the three-day event.

“I encourage everyone to pencil this event into their diary and head into the CBD. There’s so much on offer and it could bring the financial boost so many of our businesses desperately need right now.”

Shop BNE City will be held from Friday October 30 to Sunday November 1. 

www.bnecity.com.au/shop

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