Greater support needed for struggling Auckland businesses

Auckland Council’s economic development agency, ATEED, must continue to lift their level of response and further support our local businesses facing significant financial pressure due to the impact of COVID-19, Waitemata Local Board Member and Business Support Specialist Sarah Trotman says.

“As Economic Development portfolio holder for the Local Board, I’ve been meeting businesses across the Waitemata area. Stress has increased to unbelievable and, at times, unmanageable levels and anxiety is on the rise. Our CBD businesses in particular are fighting immense pressure, not only from COVID-19, but also the significant impact of the City Rail Link construction. Put simply, they cannot take any more pressure.

“Whether its staff wellbeing, cashflow, supply chain, inability to travel to global markets or the rapidly changing market conditions, business owners need advice, support and resources to mitigate any long-lasting impacts. What we rebuild once COVID-19 has done its damage will be the making, or breaking, of our city’s economy. Make no mistake, the economic impacts of COVID-19 will far outweigh those of the GFC and the 1987 crash, part of our role is to help business owners open their eyes to potential long-term impacts.

“In addition to connecting with proven business support organisations like the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, the Employers’ Manufacturers’ Association and local business associations, I encourage all Auckland businesses to fill out ATEED’s quick survey that seeks input and feedback about the ways council can offer practical support.”

Visit: www.aucklandnz.com/business-and-investment/news/covid-19

Trotman reminds business owners of the valuable business mentoring organisation that she helped to build www.businessmentors.org.nz “Business Mentors has supported over 70,000 businesses since 1991. Business owners don’t have to go through the challenges of COVID-19 alone.

“We must go early and we must go hard. Our priority right now should be about saving businesses, which in turn saves jobs and relieves pressure on our communities.”

For the most up-to-date Government response information please visit www.covid19.govt.nz

If you are an Auckland-based business owner who wants to talk to someone, call the ATEED team on T: 09 365 0510.

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