The streets of Lismore have been quiet over the last few days, with fewer shoppers than ever venturing out into the CBD.

It’s a tough time for local retailers, as the people of Lismore isolate themselves and stay away from public spaces in the midst of the coronavirus situation. 

The Lismore App reported yesterday that local cafe the French Bench closed its doors this week due to a downturn in customers who are bunkering down at home.

The French Bench closes in coronavirus downturn

So, we decided to see what was going on in other businesses in Lismore, with the take away message from local retailers being: please keep coming in and shopping local.

The Garden Plate

Owner of Garden Plate café on Magellan Street, Vanessa MacMullen, said she had already cut back staff hours due to a downturn in business over the last week.

“Everybody has heard that the French Bench has closed down - and that will happen to us if people don’t support us,” Vanessa said.

“We are still here after four years in business and we are going to keep going – so don’t forget about us.”

Cafe Capello

Café Capello owner Tony Pilati said he doesn’t subscribe to the “doom and gloom” that’s out there about the virus.

“We want to stay positive, so come on down to Café Capello and have a coffee,” Tony said.

“Our customers have been great – still coming in and supporting us – they don’t want to see me close the café."

Dragonfly Cafe

Dragonfly Café owner Lisa Yacopetti said business had definitely slowed down and wanted to reassure people that café staff are being vigilant with their hygiene protocols.

“Please keep supporting local businesses while you can,” Lisa said. 

“The knock on effects are massive if you don’t.”

Keen Street in front of Shoppe One-17.

Shoppe One-17

Shoppe One-17 on Keen Street has also been quiet this week.

Company Director Graeme Palmer said things are “looking a bit scary”.

“At this stage, we are expecting to stay open and trade as usual all the while the authorities say it’s OK,” Graeme said. 

“I have to say though, takings are well down, and that will mean some changes to costs if we are to survive into 6 months.

“If customers aren’t coming in so much, we can close one of our two doors and operate on half the staff.

“Of course, we will try and distribute that small salary across our entire roster.

“Also, if we receive any cash from the government, we will spend that on salary as well.

“If things get super tough, we can close the doors and promote online sales with local free delivery.”

The Lismore App wants to remind you to support local businesses at this time. Your patronage keeps the doors open and protects the livelihoods of people in our community.

For information about coronavirus, you can visit the Lismore App section: Coronavirus

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