Surprise treat for newly opened city business
JUST months after investing in one of the region's most aesthetically pleasing areas the owners are quite happy with the "steady" growth.
While business has been gradual, Cocoa Mama owner Estrellita Gargano said the amount of foot traffic has really started to flow through her doors since opening three weeks ago.
What a good time too.
The chocolate and dessert specialist served more than 80 macadamia Easter eggs during the Easter break.
Her secret, she says, is word of mouth.
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"People are more aware of supporting local business," Ms Gargano said.
"I was expecting to hear the negative comments about starting a business in Mackay, but I haven't.
"Everyone has been super positive, super friendly and really like 'well done', 'good luck' and they have been really great."
That support was also felt by new shop owner, Teal Keating. The hairdresser moved her at-home business, Everwonder Hair Studio, onto Victoria St last November. Ms Keating wanted to be a part of the "new revamp" and said she has already seen an increase in clients.
"We're loving it here," she said.
"There are a lot of facilities in the city heart and a lot of other businesses here that complement our salon."
Next door, Fredericks manager Katie Frederickson said she had doubled in sales the last two weeks, and can't wait to see what the city brings as the region approaches Mother's Day.
She said business has been steady, after moving into Mackay's heart at the end of last year.
"It's nice to see people realise that the city heart is coming back to life," Ms Frederickson said.
"January and February are quite slow for retail but with school holidays the last two weeks, things have really picked up. People are out and about more."
Down the road at Secret Identity Costume Hire, co-owner Katrina Barker said she is still settling into the street and was unsure if her business was because of sales and school holidays.
"We're getting good feedback, yet we still have people asking how long we have been here," she said.
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