Central West
businesses will continue to grow and flourish making way for new enterprises
and add-on industries to enter the local market. The question you have to ask
is – are you ready to catch this wind and fly?
In the lead-up to the 2016 Central West
Business Summit in May, it is thought-provoking to reflect on the growth the
region has seen in the past ten years and how it has made way for exciting
future times for local business.
We are seeing an amazing change in the
tapestry of business across the region. Whilst we may see the inevitable
seasonal ebb and flow within the traditional industries that underpin the
Central West’s economy, we are continuing to see retail, hospitality and
tourism creating an eclectic diversity.
The region is really shining. Never
would our communities have dreamt that we would have such a vibrant energy 15
or 20 years ago. Many business owners have situated themselves to take
advantage of this growth and change. It’s really beginning to pay off.
The recent expansion of a number of
local businesses is a sign of the changing nature of the local market. Canowindra
business, K&H Interiors and Design, is going from strength-to-strength with
a second store planned for the region.
In Cowra, Rourke
and Henry Kids Boutique is growing an online following throughout the State
and in Molong Yates Baker McLean Accountants and
Business Advisors are continuing to grow their advisory services with the
evolution of their agribusiness group based in Molong.
Our
businesses are doing some great things. Sometimes
we undervalue ourselves, but I see it as a brilliant opportunity to help people
in regional locations elevate their business through marketing.
Online marketing has been a game changer
along with an expansion in hospitality and tourism. The Central West is now a
solid destination for local, interstate and international visitors who are keen
to explore the riches of the region.
Mining and agriculture are still our
strengths as a region. The Central West is one of the most heavily prospected
regions in Australia.
Business owners can position themselves
to take further advantage of the market by knowing their customers, taking care
of the local market, and understanding their business and capabilities.
Getting to know your customers is one of
the most important things you can do for your business. Really listen to and
care about the people who are using your services and buying your products –
they are your business!
Always sell to locals first especially
in hospitality and tourism. The visiting friends and relatives market is an
important one to tap into.
Understand your business and your
capabilities. You hear it all the time, but setting realistic goals for your
business and working towards them on a daily basis is integral.
Finally, gathering a trusted team of
employees, associates and networks around you is the number one factor which
will ensure your business success during times of change.
One of my key strengths in business has
been forging a diverse range of connections throughout the Central West to
facilitate strategic alliances with complimentary business.
Adloyalty is currently working with Regional Development
Australia Central West, the Business Enterprise Centre Central NSW and Yates
Baker McLean in preparing for the 2016 Central West Business Summit to be held
in Parkes on the 24th May.
Key themes for this year include innovation,
agribusiness, engineering, heavy vehicle industry and mining. The Summit provides
access to renowned business experts and speakers, provides Central West
businesses with the ability to network with complementary businesses and
potential clients, and facilitates the sharing of ideas and knowledge.
For
more information about the Summit or to purchase tickets go to www.centralwestbusinesssummit.com.au.