In November the Chamber conducted a survey of businesses in Glebe – this was not confined to members although 90% of respondents were Chamber members. 31 people completed the survey, which is a fair response rate – and on which we intend to build. The survey was anonymous and not statistically based so cannot be taken as fully representative. However the primary role of the Chamber is to represent our members and those who wish to engage with the Chamber so these results are very relevant to our planning and activities. This information is also the most current available.

 

The industry sector breakdown shows a large diversity of business in Glebe with the largest groupings being:

·      22% IT / Web services / Graphic design

·      19% Hospitality – Food / Accommodation

·      19% Antiques / Art & craft / Floristry / Interior design

·      13% Real estate / Property management

With significant numbers also in:

·      Accounting & legal

·      Building services / architecture

·      Health & fitness / Beauty

·      Marketing & photography

·      Medical & dental

Also 51% of businesses were established over 10 years ago.

 

The next question posed was whether respondents expected their income for the current financial year to be more, the same or less than last year. The answers were:

·      42% More than last year

·      35% about the same and

·      23% said lower

This is fairly encouraging and perhaps indicates some recovery from the GFC or more locally, the Glebe Point Road upgrade

 

We asked about business size (in terms of staff numbers) and 38% of businesses employ at least 5 people with a further 32% being solo operators. A follow-on question showed that for 42% of business none of the staff lived in Glebe (and 32% had only some staff being Glebe locals).

 

51% of responses had shop or office fronts onto the street showing there are significant numbers of ‘hidden’ businesses that the Chamber also represents.

 

We asked about challenges or obstacles that business faces, generally and specifically to Glebe. Some of the most relevant comments or issues included:

·      Parking (on and off street); lack of outdoor seating

·      Competition and price pressures; fewer customers around

·      Glebe becoming unfriendly

·      Lack of support from government (local, state & federal)

·      Council red tape and bureaucracy

·      Not enough trading/activity during the day

·      High rents; empty shops

·      University focussed (v quiet during holidays)

·      Poor flow of traffic to/from Broadway

·      Some crime but Glebe reputation improving

Questions and responses on the Glebe Street Fair:

Communication and how members want to hear from the Chamber – 93% prefer e-newsletter by email. Respondents could give more than one answer with 20-30% also choosing each of networking events, website and social media.

 

We also wanted to gauge attitudes and satisfaction with the Chamber:

The final question asked for additional comments for the Chamber:

·      More advance notice of events please

·      Use alternative days (not always Tuesdays)

·      Have big named bands and artists for the Fair

·      Be objective about Glebe today and not just hark back to how it used to be

 

We will take on board these responses and suggestions in our planning for 2012 and beyond. A follow-up survey will be conducted in 2012 to monitor any trends and gauge the level of ongoing engagement with the Chamber.

 

Thank you to everyone who participated.