The days of expecting customer walk-in’s just because the retailer is open are over. People now shop when and where they like. So if customers aren’t coming to the retailer, the retailer needs to go to the customer. (Excuse the variation on this old saying.) Having an e-commerce website is one way; but actually mixing it with customers in an environment where they can touch, feel, test and get to know you (the local retailer/employer), is going to be so much more effective. That’s why I was excited when Grand Australian Events (GEA) approached me to market their CQ Mega Lifestyle Expo. You may have seen the full page advertisement in Saturday’s paper. Having read my previous columns proposing a CQ Showcase; an exhibition of innovative practices, entrepreneurial and technical talent in CQ; GEA said let’s make it happen. And after sitting in on some of the meetings with potential sponsors the passion to make this event not just happen but generate genuine excitement in the community, in what has been a lack lustre retail year so far, is hopefully infectious. This is an expo that wants to put local businesses up front and centre. The locally based organisers want to highlight new innovations like a dry ice vending machine being developed here in Rockhampton, new product releases, new micro businesses and the local people who run their businesses. The Expo aims to make a statement that CQ is an innovative and vibrant region. A showcase that proves in CQ there are opportunities, support networks, diversity, inventors, positive thinkers and doers. Unfortunately not all CQ businesses will embrace it and believe if they continue to keep doing the same thing somehow things will change. Well they are right, things will change; for the worse. At last CQ is to have its own showcase, a Mega Lifestyle Expo, for the businesses that get on board you will be seen as the new local business leaders, businesses that are prepared to go to the customer and join with others in promoting the brand CQ; dynamic, vibrant, diverse; a region of opportunity and people who are having a go. For details about the expo being held in Rockhampton May 27-29 visit www.grandeventsaustralia.com.au.