Kyneton Food Collective has struck a chord with a plea for people to support their local cafes, restaurants, bakeries, bars and businesses.
The group of Kyneton hospitality businesses said increased cost-of-living pressures had hit everyone hard but now was the time for people to shop locally if they could.
“Staff shortages, rising utility bills, relentless insurance increases, and the skyrocketing cost of ingredients have pushed many operators to the brink,” they revealed.
“Reduced hours, trimmed menus, owners working unpaid shifts, the razor-thin margins are now the reality. For families running these businesses, the stress isn’t theoretical — it’s lived every day.
“Kyneton, this is our turning point. Supporting local isn’t about spending big — it’s about showing up. Choosing a coffee, a beer, a meal, or a small retail purchase now and then. Those small actions, taken together, keep our town vibrant.”
The letter has gained more than 100,000 views online and has been shared on multiple platforms, among many communities.
One of the collective’s members, Botanik Kyneton’s Melissa Macfarlane, said it was because industry pressures were widespread.
“Where we find ourselves is not unique to Kyneton. Everyone is struggling,” she told the Express. “We know that it’s really hard and we need to band together.
“The idea of the letter was to explain why we may not be open seven days a week, why costs may be changing and to create awareness of costs to businesses.”
Kyneton Food Collective formed in response to the covid-19 pandemic when the hospitality sector faced extraordinary pressures and restrictions.
The industry continues to face challenges as cost-of-living pressures impact general business operations and customer spending capacity.
Collective member, Donkey Kyneton owner Mark James, said the hospitality sector and retailers across the board had noticed “a drop-off in business”.
“It’s hard going. Everyone is doing it tough right now,” he said.
“Local hospitality businesses are asking people to please come and buy one pie, or one coffee. We don’t need extravagant purchases, just please don’t forget we’re here.
“We’ll end up with more empty shops if we don’t try to protect what we love.”
Since the letter was posted last week, businesses have reported residents seem to be paying attention and visitations have slightly increased in response.
