Hardware store to open in February

A new Umina hardware store is set to officially open on Friday, February 1.

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales said the business would be a major boost for the Peninsula economy.

"Coming off the back of a bumper Christmas for Peninsula retailers, the opening of the Umina Bunnings store will further boost the local economy and add nearly 50 part time and full time jobs to the Umina retail precinct," said Mr Wales.

"This is great news for the town and for employment opportunities for local people.

"There is no doubt that the Umina Beach retail centre has reached a critical mass that is now generating its own business opportunities and laying the foundation for smaller retailers to benefit from increased foot traffic and spendable income that has flooded into town.

"What we are finding for the first time in many years is that locals and people from out of the area are making a deliberate choice to shop in Umina rather than go to other major retail centres outside of the Peninsula.

"This is what it is all about, making sure that locals spend locally and support local businesses.

"This comes from providing choice and competition.

"The opening of the Bunnings Hardware outlet is further evidence that major retailers see a positive future for the Peninsula and adds to recent capital investment decisions by Woolworths, Coles, Aldi and McDonalds.

"The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has worked very hard to encourage business growth and retail development in Umina Beach and the town is now starting to reap the rewards of those efforts," said Mr Wales.

The new store will comprise of the main store, timber trade sales area and outdoor nursery.

The development of Bunnings Umina will provide parking for over 30 cars

Media Release, 16 Jan 2013

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce