10 Reasons to shop local in Mullumbimby this Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner, and we're excited to help you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

We’ve put together a festive collection to spark your holiday spirit and guide you in finding the ideal Christmas gift. From trendy accessories to must-have essentials, we've chosen a wide array of gift ideas to match the unique taste and personality of your family and friends. Click here to download your 2024 Christmas Gift Guide and enjoy an exclusive 10% discount code inside.

At Stewarts Menswear, we've carefully selected our Summer ranges from suppliers we trust so that you can look your best in both the latest fashions and everyday basics. But we're not alone! Mullumbimby's local businesses are fully stocked and ready for Christmas.

Shopping local in Mullumbimby not only supports our community but also offers unique experiences and benefits. Here are 10 reasons to shop local this Christmas.

1. Unique Products

What makes Mullumbimby different from shopping centres? Small business owners know their customers well, and have the opportunity to handpick their product ranges, tailoring them to suit the diverse population of Mullumbimby. From international brands to locally sourced goods and hand-made items, there's something for everyone in Mullumbimby!! 

2. Personalised Service

Step into Stewart's Menswear in Mullumbimby and discover the difference of shopping local. As owners, we're passionate about providing personalised recommendations and expert advice drawn from over 45 years of experience. No pressure to buy, just genuine customer care. We love connecting with locals and visitors alike to ensure you find exactly what you need.

3. Community Support

When you shop local, you're investing in our town's economic growth and helping to preserve our unique character together with fostering a vibrant community. In fact, American Express's Shop Small campaign reveals:

• For every $1 spent locally, $0.68 stays in the community
• Local businesses create 4.6 times more economic benefit than big-box retailers
• 8/10 consumers agree that shopping small makes a positive impact on their community.

By choosing to shop local, you're supporting local jobs and livelihoods and ensuring that the many community events and initiatives our business owners contribute to continue to thrive.

Source: American Express, Shop Small Research (2020)

4. Local Character

Mullumbimby's eclectic soul is woven from its rich history and heritage along with its vibrant arts scene, lush rainforests, lively markets and community events.

By supporting independent businesses, you're helping preserve the town's authentic character and ensuring Mullumbimby remains a unique and captivating destination. Our small town is defined by friendliness, where locals and visitors alike are welcomed with a smile.

5. Convenience

Experience the ease of shopping and exploring Mullumbimby's compact and charming town centre. With everything within walking distance, you can park once and visit multiple shops whilst enjoying a coffee or meal between browsing but do keep an eye on parking restrictions to avoid unnecessary fines.  Discover hidden gems and local favourites by chatting with the local shop owners who are only too happy to give away Mullumbimby's hidden secrets!!

6. Environmental Benefits

Forget the hassle and expense of travelling to distant shopping centres. Save yourself time by avoiding the commute and the congested roads in the bigger towns. Shopping locally in Mullumbimby is a convenient and sustainable choice which can reduce carbon emissions  This reduction comes not only from you using less fuel, but also a decrease in emissions by using local suppliers and delivery routes. In addition, small business often have waste minimising operations in place together with investing in renewable energy sources.

7. Job Creation

Invest in Mullumbimby's future by shopping locally. Your support creates local employment opportunities, and funds apprenticeships and traineeships. Every purchase from a Mullumbimby business helps build a thriving local workforce, benefiting our community for generations to come.

8. Expert Knowledge

In Mullumbimby shops, you'll find owners who have spent years honing their skills and knowledge to become experts in their field. From clothing stores to food producers, and home decor specialists to farm equipment experts, our local businesses are run by people who truly understand their products and services. They're happy to share their expertise, offer personalised advice, and help you find exactly what you need. By shopping locally, you're tapping into this wealth of knowledge and experience absolutely free!!

9. Local Artisans and Handmade Goods

Uncover the unique character of Mullumbimby's handmade scene.

At the monthly Mullumbimby Community Market held on the third Saturday of every month, stroll through the shady grounds of the Mullumbimby Museum where you will experience the unique Mullumbimby vibe along with artisan stalls, vintage finds, good food, and live music.

Alternatively, visit Made in Mullum, a Burringbar Street store showcasing the best of our local handmade talent. This collective store offers an ever-changing array of unique handmade treasures.

10. Community Events

Throughout the year, the businesses of Mullumbimby support many vibrant events and festivals which bring people together, fostering connection and belonging. The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman's Small Business Matters Report 2023 states that “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities"

During the lead up to Christmas many of Mullumbimby's shops participate in the shop local campaign organised by Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by our independent local newspaper, the Byron Shire Echo. Simply spend $20.00 in any participating store and fill out your entry form to be in the running to win one of 20 x $100.00 shopping vouchers. You've got to be in it to win it!!

Explore, Discover, Delight:

To further immerse yourself in the Mullumbimby experience, explore these hidden gems:

Visit the Mullumbimby Farmers Market

In addition to shops in Mullumbimby, you might like to take a visit to the Mullumbimby Farmers Market at the Mullumbimby Showgrounds. Bursting with local flavour, you can find one-of-a-kind gifts, fresh produce, and meet the makers.

Step Back in Time: Explore Mullumbimby's Rich History

Discover our town's fascinating heritage at the Mullumbimby Museum or take a self-guided historic walking tour. Visit the historic Commercial Hotel, affectionately known as The Middle Pub right next to our store, Stewart's Menswear. Did you know that Stewart's Menswear in Mullumbimby has operated from the same premises since 1929!! Click here to find out more about our heritage. 

Local Flavours: Mullumbimby's Eateries

Fuel your shopping trip with a coffee, cold drink or something to eat from one of the many eateries in town. From a pie to a giant burger and everything in between including Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese; there's something for everyone in Mullumbimby. Kids tired of following you around the shops? Take a break at the Northside Cafe inside the Mullumbimby Ex-services club which also has an undercover children's playground.

Supporting Local, Supporting Community

Shopping local in Mullumbimby has benefits that extend far beyond a simple transaction. By choosing to support our local businesses, you're helping to preserve our unique character and contributing to a thriving local economy.

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