How to Support Local Businesses in the Quiet Season
It feels like yesterday we were rushed off our feet at work, queuing at packed grocery stores, trying to find a table at our favourite restaurant or searching for an empty parking spot.
Now that summer’s heat and hustle have settled, winter has brought its familiar hush to the Overberg. As the temperatures drop, so does foot traffic, business activity, and the general buzz. However, the slower season creates an opportunity to build on the core of what makes our daily lives work - our community and collective efforts.
So, get comfortable with us and explore our simple ways to help support local businesses in the quiet season.
Build Strength in Slower Seasons
Winter can be challenging for small businesses. With seasonal dips in spending, many local entrepreneurs rely on community support to keep going.
That’s why it matters when businesses recommend each other, share customers, and look out for their neighbours.
Here’s how it looks in action. A guesthouse owner suggests a cosy local restaurant running winter specials. That restaurant, in turn, hands out brochures for the guesthouse, while staff enthusiastically promote local events and activities to encourage visitors to have the best time during their stay.
Everyone benefits, and visitors appreciate experiencing the town like a local does.
Be the Golden Link in the Local Chain
There really is enough for everyone, especially when we share.
Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday, and a homeowner needs urgent help with a burst geyser. Their usual plumber is out of town and unavailable, but instead of ignoring the message, he forwards the contact details of a fellow plumber who can assist. Nobody showers cold on his watch! Later, when that same plumber goes on holiday, guess who gets recommended in return?
These small gestures build something powerful: reliability and connection.
Create Interest in Social Events
When winter rolls in, many artists retreat indoors, and live entertainers like musicians and DJS face a quieter calendar.
Now is the ideal time to support the local talent who partner with restaurants, pubs, and community spaces to create cosy events. You might not always feel like braving the cold, but showing up helps - and hey, it gets you out of your slippers for the night.
Whether it’s an intimate art night, live acoustic session, or poetry evening, your presence helps keep the creative fire burning.
Help the Less Fortunate: It’s Easier Than You Think
Winter doesn’t only affect businesses - it can be especially hard for those already facing tough times.
The quieter months offer a meaningful opportunity to lend a hand. Many Overberg towns run soup kitchens, collect blankets, or host fundraising drives that rely on volunteers, donations, and word-of-mouth to succeed.
Want to help? Drop off a bag of groceries, donate warm clothing, or share an event online. Small actions add up. And when you help bring warmth into someone’s life, you’re doing more than giving back, you’re building a community that looks after its own.
Use Community Platforms Like Xplorio and Gans-Berg Nuus / News
Getting the word out can make all the difference whether you're promoting an accommodation special, hosting a jazz evening, or collecting food and blankets.
Platforms like Xplorio and Gans-Berg Nuus / News make it easy to promote special offers, upcoming events and charitable causes.
Keep the Overberg Spirit Burning This Winter
Even in the off-season, your everyday choices have power.
If your business can’t help a customer, point them to someone who can. Recommend the café up the road, the craftsperson in the next town, the farm stall still baking bread each morning, or the band playing live at the market this weekend.
And yes, while we all love the ease of online shopping, maybe pause before hitting ‘Add to Cart’ on e-commerce marketplaces and big box sites. That same order could be someone in your town's lifeline, helping keep the lights on and settle the next vet bill.
Winter isn’t just for hibernating. It’s our time to pull together, support one another, and keep our community thriving until the busier days return.
Need Help Spreading the Word?
Contact Xplorio or Gans-Berg Nuus / News to learn how marketing can help build a more resilient community.
Xplorio
info@xplorio.com
072 519 2138
Gans-Berg Nuus / News
design@gansberg.co.za
028 205 0100
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