Monumental Ice Creamery’s Matt Vogel (centre) receives his prize money from Priceline Pharmacy Albury’s Amanda Ward (left) and Albury Business Connect’s Glen Robinson (right). Photo: Supplied.
A 12-week campaign aimed at encouraging residents to shop locally has delivered a significant economic boost for Albury.
According to economic development analysts REMPLAN, ‘Shop-a-Local’ generated more than $450,000 in spending across participating businesses.
The initiative, launched in April, was a joint effort by AlburyCity, Albury Business Connect, and AlburyCBD to spotlight local retailers and strengthen community ties through targeted promotions and incentives.
More than 80 businesses across Albury, Lavington and Thurgoona took part.
The campaign featured weekly prize draws and wrapped with a major giveaway at Albury’s inaugural Busk on the Border event last month.
The giveaways saw one lucky shopper win the $5000 cash jackpot sponsored by Telstra, and participating business Monumental Ice Creamery receive a $2000 prize sponsored by Priceline Pharmacy Albury.
Monumental Ice Creamery crafts premium ice cream and sorbet on-site using locally grown produce and seasonal ingredients, emphasising a small-batch approach.
“We’re very strong on supporting locally owned business as we are one ourselves,” said Monumental’s owner Matthew Vogel.
“We thought it was a great opportunity and there were great weekly prizes on top of the major prizes. It was a no-brainer for us to be involved.
“We need to show our support for other local businesses in Albury as we like to be supported by locals ourselves obviously.”
Monumental Ice Creamery is famous for its churros. Photo: Monumental Ice Creamery.
He said the business was coming up to its 13th year in its David Street location and had enjoyed continual growth until a national ice creamery franchise opened nearby.
“Customers who spend money with us know that their money stays local and that’s incredibly important for our local economy; every cent stays here and that should be rewarded.”
He has earmarked his prize money to go toward business enhancement and is working on opening a complementary food outlet next to the ice creamery.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the Shop-a-Local campaign was developed to encourage and reward residents for choosing local.
“Local businesses face ongoing challenges, from staffing shortages to rising costs, and initiatives like this offer real support where it’s needed most.”
Albury Business Connect General Manager Glen Robinson said people were fortunate to have a variety of shopping experiences available in Albury.
“Supporting them strengthens both our community and boosts our appeal as an attractive visitor destination.”
He said he expected the competition to return again in 2026.
The campaign attracted 1508 entries, with shoppers spending an average of $159.81 per transaction.
Digital promotion reached more than 1 million views, reinforcing the message to shop local.
“It is evident Albury residents are stepping up to support their local business community,” said Mayor Mack.
“This kind of engagement makes a tangible difference to small businesses, and we’re looking forward to building on that momentum for future campaigns.”
Locals are encouraged to continue backing the more than 2000 small businesses which underpin Albury’s economy.
