Labelling this week’s Sunshine Plaza expansion announcement as a another positive step forward in transforming the Sunshine Coast into a thriving economic hub, the Sunshine Coast Business Council has expressed its hope that the move will spur further large-scale investment in the region.
The local business and economic advocacy group’s Chair Sandy Zubrinich said it was encouraging to see big business recognising the benefits of investing on the Sunshine Coast and taking action to benefit from the region’s growing population and subsequent demand for services.
“While Sunshine Plaza has been a major destination on the Sunshine Coast landscape for decades, it’s heartening to see developers identifying and capitalising on the potential for growth in the marketplace,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“It is also important for Noosa Civic to proceed with their planned improvements to that important shopping hub as the region needs these key shopping centres to not only provide services to the local regional population but also to the increasing tourism trade.”
“I’m hopeful that other large-scale enterprises will also have their eyes opened to the business opportunities available locally and our regional councils and local communities support developers looking to keep investing in regional assets.”
Ms Zubrinich said with the Sunshine Coast population forecast to grow to more than 500,000 people by 2031, initiatives that generated long-term employment opportunities for residents were a welcome addition.
“Aside from delivering a significant boost to the construction industry, it is anticipated the Sunshine Plaza expansion will generate close to 3,000 retail positions on completion, which is incredibly positive for the long-term sustainability and prosperity of our region,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“As elected officials, business groups and community leaders work to attract further investment to the area, it’s important we focus on ventures that will support our local economy and contribute to a high employment rate.”
Ms Zubrinich said in addition to the employment benefits posed by the Sunshine Plaza expansion, she anticipated the project would present a number of other advantages to the local economy.
“Having major brands like David Jones right here on the coast will mark the region as a vibrant shopping destination, increasing the likelihood of shoppers purchasing goods locally rather than taking their spend further afield.”
“The increased foot traffic will also directly benefit other small businesses and specialty stores in the area, keeping profits in our community.”
“It’s great to have such an exciting and advantageous project getting off the ground after years of negotiations and engagement with local government and community members.”