Retail Woes

By JUDE RECZEK

There's clear evidence that the average wage is no longer sustaining WA families, who's money's being gobbled up by increases in the cost of groceries, petrol and utilities, particularly electricity. So, that's at home. 

What of the small business owner?

It's a tough time for them as well - especially in the retail sector – especially on roads peppered with small independent retailers.

But who's to blame? The GFC? Landlords? The council? Or is it us? Are we not visiting these quirky shopping strips enough because we can find what we want elsewhere or online – cheaper?

Youth Reporter Jude Reczek spoke to Beaufort street retailers and the City of Vincent's Mayor about the rocky road of retail...