With lockdown restrictions loosened, South Coast retailers are welcoming shoppers back into their stores and said many are coming in to get on top of their Christmas lists.
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Homeware and gift store The Retreat Co. on Kinghorne Street has been particularly busy, with many coming in to buy gifts for weddings now that they are back on, too.
Staff member Jane Morrison encouraged shoppers to get on top of their gift buying, especially before visitors from Greater Sydney are allowed to travel to the regions.
"There are actually weddings coming up now, so people have been coming in buying wedding presents and of course Christmas presents," she said.
"Now everyone's got dates of when things are opening up, people are panic buying gifts and it can be hard to get on top of stock.
"I think once Sydney can come down, it will be crazy. So if locals want to buy things for Christmas, I think now's the time."
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Jane welcomed the "happy vibe" of shoppers back in the store.
"They're checking in and out and wearing masks, people have been positive with that sort of thing," said Jane.
"Everyone's just got a very happy vibe about being able to come and shop again. It's been nice seeing people have their retail therapy."
Children's boutique Dragonfly Kids on Junction Street, owned by Kristy Chartier, has also been busy with gift shoppers.
"It's been busier than expected. It's been lovely to see the community support," said Dani Clarke, Kristy's sister.
"People have been coming in and looking to prepare for Christmas. Some of them have been buying for Christmas to get in because they're worried another lockdown could happen.
"I think it will get busier because people have had to stay away from the shops for so long."
Dani said the majority of customers have been compliant, and even excited, to abide by COVID regulations.
"I've only had one person that didn't have their vaccine certificate on them," said Dani.
"It was hard to turn them away. But so many people have been excited to display theirs and some even thank me for asking them for their certificate."
Under the NSW roadmap out of lockdown, shopping at "non-critical retail" is allowed for the fully vaccinated.
People who are not fully vaccinated can only access non-critical retail via Click & Collect.
From December 1, non-critical retail will be open to everyone regardless of their vaccine status.
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Grace Crivellaro
Court reporter for the Illawarra Mercury.
Court reporter for the Illawarra Mercury.
