Contacts

92 Bowery St., NY 10013

thepascal@mail.com

+1 800 123 456 789

shutterstock_2246777419
Strategic Plan 2024-2029

Hunters Corner Strategic 5-year Plan

Message from the Chair

Dear Members and Stakeholders,
I am pleased to introduce the Hunters Corner Town Centre Society’s 5-Year Plan, which outlines our vision for the future and sets out our goals for the next five years. Our focus is on supporting and facilitating maximum benefit for local businesses, and we recognize the need to work more collaboratively with key stakeholders to achieve this.

As Chair, I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with local businesses, community organisations, and government agencies to create a thriving and vibrant town centre. By working together, we can leverage our collective strengths and resources to address the challenges facing our local businesses and to capitalize on opportunities for growth and development.

Our strategic plan emphasizes the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. We are dedicated to creating a supportive environment where businesses can thrive, and where residents and visitors can enjoy a diverse range of offerings.

I encourage all stakeholders to join us in this endeavour, as we strive to make Hunters Corner Town Centre a hub of economic activity, cultural richness, and community pride.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and I look forward to working together to achieve our shared goals.

Download – Strategic Plan 2024 – 2029

money
Wages

Minimum wage set to increase to $23.15 from 1 April

The minimum wage will increase by 2 percent, from $22.70 to $23.15, from 1 April.

Training wages and starting wages will remain at 80 percent of the minimum wage rate, thereby increasing to $18.52.

“An increase to $23.15 will benefit between 80,000 and 145,000 workers and will give our lowest paid workers more money in their pockets, without hindering job growth or imposing unreasonable costs on businesses,” Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden said.

“Moderate annual increases to the minimum wage reflect this government’s commitment to growing the economy, boosting incomes and supporting job growth throughout New Zealand,” she  said.

“The increase announced takes into consideration the current economic conditions and the historically large increases to the minimum wage that have distorted relativities with other wage-earners.”

Van Velden said New Zealand’s minimum wage was one of the most generous in the OECD in terms of relativity with the median wage.

“As a ratio to the median wage, the minimum wage has increased from 62 percent of the median wage in June 2017 to 72 percent in June 2023. This has made it harder for businesses to issue pay rises or take on more staff.”

Last year, the minimum wage increased by $1.50 an hour, with the then Labour government saying the impact on inflation would be “negligible”.

But van Velden was critical of Labour’s moves, saying the minimum wage increases under the Labour government “far outstripped CPI”.

The minister for workplace relations and safety is required by law to review the minimum wages annually.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment recommended in its review that the wage be increased by 4 percent to $23.60, which was expected to impact the earnings of about 164,400 workers, resulting in an economy-wide wage bill increase of $145 million.

“[This increase option] is estimated to produce no restraints on employment in 2024, therefore meeting the objective relating to job losses. It also roughly protects the real current value of the minimum wage as it approximately matches Treasury’s and RBNZ’s forecast CPI inflation rate for the March 2024 quarter (4.3 percent).”

ACT’s campaign promises for a three-year freeze on the minimum wage, reversing new sick leave entitlements, and the scrapping of the 2 January public holiday did not make it into the party’s coalition agreement with National.

shutterstock_2273999575
Business growthBusiness Strategy

Strategies for Sustainable Growth – A Guide for Small Businesses

In the dynamic landscape of business, growth is not merely a goal but a necessity for survival and success. For small businesses, achieving sustainable growth is especially crucial, as it lays the foundation for long-term viability and prosperity. However, navigating the path to sustainable growth can be challenging amidst fierce competition and ever-changing market conditions.

In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies that small businesses can adopt to foster sustainable growth.

Define Your Vision and Goals

Sustainable growth begins with a clear vision and well-defined goals. Take the time to articulate what success looks like for your business and set specific, measurable objectives to guide your growth journey. Whether it’s expanding your customer base, increasing revenue streams, or entering new markets, having a clear direction will help focus your efforts and resources.

Focus on Customer Experience

Building strong, lasting relationships with your customers is essential for sustainable growth. Invest in delivering exceptional customer experiences at every touchpoint, from the initial interaction to post-purchase support. Listen to customer feedback, anticipate their needs, and constantly strive to exceed their expectations. A satisfied customer is not only likely to become a repeat buyer but also an advocate for your brand, driving organic growth through referrals.

Innovate and Adapt

Embrace innovation as a catalyst for growth. Stay agile and adaptable in response to changing market trends, technological advancements, and consumer preferences. Continuously seek opportunities to improve your products or services, streamline processes, and explore new business models. Innovation doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel; sometimes, small tweaks or incremental changes can lead to significant improvements and competitive advantages.

Invest in Your Team

Your employees are your most valuable asset in achieving sustainable growth. Cultivate a culture of learning, collaboration, and empowerment within your organization. Provide opportunities for professional development, recognize and reward performance, and foster open communication channels. Engaged and motivated employees are more productive, creative, and committed to driving the success of your business.

Strategic Partnerships and Alliances

Collaborating with strategic partners can accelerate your growth trajectory and unlock new opportunities. Identify complementary businesses or organizations that share your target audience or objectives. Forge partnerships that leverage each other’s strengths, whether it’s co-marketing campaigns, joint ventures, or distribution agreements. By pooling resources and expertise, you can expand your reach, access new markets, and mitigate risks.

Monitor and Measure Performance

To ensure sustainable growth, it’s essential to track and evaluate your progress regularly. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with your goals and monitor them consistently. Analyze data, identify trends, and glean insights to inform strategic decision-making. Be prepared to pivot or adjust your approach based on performance metrics and market dynamics.

Financial Management and Planning

Sound financial management is critical for sustainable growth. Develop a comprehensive budget and financial plan that accounts for both short-term needs and long-term objectives. Monitor cash flow, control expenses, and prioritize investments that generate a positive return on investment (ROI). Consider seeking advice from financial professionals or mentors to ensure prudent financial decision-making.

In conclusion, sustainable growth is not a sprint but a marathon. It requires strategic planning, continuous innovation, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction. By implementing these strategies and remaining agile in the face of challenges, small businesses can position themselves for long-term success and resilience in an ever-evolving marketplace.

img23
Diwali

February Newsletter

Greetings everyone – Chair – Gurdeep Singh

As we are newly elected representatives of HCTC, I would like to express our gratitude and thanks to each one of you who put trust in us. With your love, support and assistance, I promise that we will all work together in every way to put our township back on the map. I seek to ensure that members and local businesses respect and listen carefully to one another and that all members and retailers are free to express their opinions without prejudice.

We will ensure that the environment improvements of the business community will attract and retain business to drive and increase employment and economic growth. As one year welcomes the next, many of us are taking this time to reflect on the year which has been to assess what was and to envision the year ahead and make the right decisions on what can be, purely for the betterment of Hunters Corner Town Centre. We can only achieve this with your full support, and from all our business and property owners.

Our dynamic Leadership Team can foster the ‘fit for purpose’ goals working towards greatness with every business nestled within business improvement district of HCTC delivering integrity, transparency and trustworthiness. HCTC aims to do activities that embrace this increasingly interconnected world. Our Businesses have the potential and power to make a difference in inspiring visitors, in turning our home into success and shaping a better, vibrant and inviting Centre for all to enjoy.

For full version of the newsletter – click here Febuary 2024 – Newsletter 

shutterstock_2297501763
Digital Marketing

Harnessing the Power of Social Media and Your Website for Small Businesses

In today’s digital age, small businesses have a powerful arsenal at their disposal to increase sales and reach new customers: social media and a well-designed website. With billions of users active on various social media platforms and the convenience of online shopping, leveraging these tools effectively can significantly boost your sales and drive business growth.

In this blog, we’ll explore tips and tricks for small businesses to harness the potential of social media and their website to increase sales.

Establish a Strong Online Presence

The foundation of any successful digital sales strategy is a robust online presence. Start by creating professional and engaging profiles for your business on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Additionally, invest in developing a user-friendly and visually appealing website that showcases your products or services effectively.

Know Your Audience

Understanding your target audience is key to crafting compelling content and driving engagement. Take the time to research and identify the demographics, interests, and preferences of your ideal customers. Use social media analytics tools and website analytics to gather insights into their behavior and tailor your marketing efforts accordingly.

Create High-Quality Content

Content is king in the world of social media and online marketing. Invest in creating high-quality, relevant, and engaging content that resonates with your audience. This could include informative blog posts, visually appealing product photos, engaging videos, and interactive polls or quizzes. Be consistent in posting content across your social media channels and website to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

Engage with Your Audience

Social media is a two-way street, so don’t just broadcast your message—engage with your audience. Respond promptly to comments, messages, and reviews, and foster meaningful conversations with your followers. Encourage user-generated content by running contests, asking for feedback, or featuring customer testimonials on your website and social media channels.

Utilize E-commerce Features

If you sell products or services online, make sure your website is equipped with e-commerce features that streamline the purchasing process. Implement secure payment gateways, user-friendly navigation, and clear calls-to-action to encourage visitors to make a purchase. Offer incentives such as discounts, free shipping, or limited-time promotions to entice customers to buy.

Optimise for Search Engines

Improve your website’s visibility and reach by optimising it for search engines. Conduct keyword research to identify relevant search terms related to your business, and incorporate them naturally into your website content, meta tags, and product descriptions. Regularly update your website with fresh, valuable content to improve your search engine rankings and attract organic traffic.

Track and Analyze Performance

Monitor the performance of your social media campaigns and website using analytics tools. Track metrics such as website traffic, conversion rates, engagement levels, and sales revenue to gauge the effectiveness of your efforts. Use this data to identify areas for improvement, refine your strategies, and optimize your marketing campaigns for better results.

In conclusion, social media and your website can be powerful tools for driving sales and growing your small business. By establishing a strong online presence, creating high-quality content, engaging with your audience, optimizing your website for search engines, and tracking performance, you can increase sales and achieve sustainable growth in the digital marketplace.

shutterstock_2154538625
Retail Sales

Strategies for Improving Retail Sales and Cultivating Repeat Customers

In the fiercely competitive world of retail, success hinges not only on attracting new customers but also on retaining existing ones. Building a loyal customer base is essential for sustaining long-term growth and profitability. In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies for improving retail sales in your shop and fostering repeat business.

Deliver Exceptional Customer Service

The cornerstone of any successful retail business is exceptional customer service. Train your staff to greet customers warmly, actively listen to their needs, and provide personalized assistance. Encourage a customer-centric culture where going above and beyond to exceed expectations is the norm. Remember, happy customers are more likely to become loyal patrons and recommend your shop to others.

Create Memorable Shopping Experiences

Transform your shop into more than just a place to make purchases—make it an experience. Pay attention to the ambiance, layout, and decor to create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment. Offer interactive displays, engaging product demonstrations, and experiential events that captivate shoppers and leave a lasting impression.

Offer Value-Added Services

Set your shop apart from the competition by offering value-added services that enhance the customer experience. Whether it’s complimentary gift wrapping, personalized styling consultations, or convenient delivery options, find ways to add extra value for your customers. These little touches demonstrate your commitment to their satisfaction and can turn one-time shoppers into loyal advocates.

Implement Loyalty Programs

Reward your loyal customers for their continued support with a loyalty program. Offer incentives such as discounts, exclusive promotions, or rewards points for repeat purchases. Make it easy for customers to enroll and track their rewards, and regularly communicate special offers to keep them engaged and coming back for more.

Stay Connected Through Email Marketing

Build and nurture relationships with your customers through email marketing campaigns. Collect email addresses at the point of sale and use them to send personalized messages, product recommendations, and special offers. Keep your content relevant, valuable, and engaging to encourage repeat visits and purchases.

Collect and Act on Customer Feedback

Listen to your customers and use their feedback to improve your products, services, and overall shopping experience. Implement a system for collecting feedback through surveys, comment cards, or online reviews, and take action on the insights you gather. Show customers that their opinions matter and that you are committed to continually evolving and meeting their needs.

Stay Top-of-Mind with Regular Communication

Stay connected with your customers even when they’re not in your shop. Maintain an active presence on social media platforms and regularly share updates, promotions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business. Engage with your followers, respond to their comments and messages promptly, and cultivate a sense of community around your brand.

Surprise and Delight

Surprise your customers with unexpected gestures of appreciation to show them how much you value their business. Offer unexpected discounts, small gifts with purchase, or handwritten thank-you notes to make them feel special and appreciated. These little moments of delight can leave a lasting impression and inspire customer loyalty.

In conclusion, improving retail sales and cultivating repeat customers requires a combination of excellent customer service, memorable shopping experiences, value-added services, loyalty programs, effective communication, and genuine appreciation for your customers. By implementing these strategies consistently and authentically, you can build a loyal customer base that sustains your business for years to come.