Renew Australia’s newest affiliate – the Portland Shop In A Box project – has taken further steps towards its goal of reactivating the Portland CBD through temporary uses of empty shops – supporting entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and artists.
Working as a Committee For Portland sub-committee under the Revitalise Portland banner, an eight person team has been set to manage and grow the project.
Shop In A Box is now looking for prospective tenants and landowners to make contact and create its first open premise. A recent vacancy analysis found almost twenty percent of Portland’s main-street commercial properties are empty.
Project Manager Kayla Berends is encouraging anyone with a passion for arts and business incubation and a desire to see increased use of empty shops to get involved.
“This pilot project is a great opportunity to support and showcase the amazing range of artists and entrepreneurs who live in Portland, as well as bring a buzz back to streets currently sitting with so many empty shops.”
“The official launch at the Upwelling Festival saw a number of people come and discuss the project with us, showing real interest in the concept.”
“Shop In A Box has a website where you can register your interest. You can also keep up to date with the project on our Facebook page.”
The project is financially supported by Committee For Portland under its Revitalise Portland banner, as well as the Leadership Great South Coast Program.
You can make contact with Shop In A Box at any of the below:
Email: portlandshopinabox@gmail.com
Website: www.portlandshopinabox.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/portlandshopinabox