Bega Shire cinema recovers with help from Business Support Group

The Picture Show Man twin cinemas in Merimbula has received assistance from the Business Support Group to help in its recovery from the impact of both bushfires and COVID-19.

The cinema lost its peak summer trade during the Black Summer bushfires and was then forced to close when the pandemic hit. On top of this, the global movie distribution system virtually shut down due to COVID-19, leaving the cinemas with no blockbuster movies to screen.

Jesse Tankard has taken over the reins from Dennis Parkes, founder and long-time owner of The Picture Show Man twin cinemas and notes “It really was ‘mission impossible’ from a business point of view. We were in a situation where we had no customers and no product to sell.”

Business bushfire and COVID-19 grants helped Tankard keep the business operational and he applied for a $50,000 business loan as a buffer should the pandemic restrictions continue. Job Keeper also played an important role in keeping permanent staff on the books.

Through the Business Support Group (BSG), Tankard was introduced to Rhys Treloar from the REWiRE program, to help establish the business’s financial position, some important success measures, a breakeven analysis and a $5,000 REWiRE grant for him to spend on accounting software training and update his signage.

BSG member, Kaye Keogh from Australian Small Business Advisory Service is helping Tankard and his team audit their digital services so Jesse can action a targeted digital marketing campaign to boost ticket sales all year round.

Another BSG member, Dales Whyte from Business Connect is helping Tankard produce videos he can use for social media promotion, and BSG member, Steve Millott from Strengthening Business is helping the cinema by connecting digital expertise to build an online marketing strategy.

In the new ‘normal’ business environment, things are slowly getting back on track and the Dine & Discover NSW vouchers have been very helpful in bringing people back into the cinema.

“Although the distribution of blockbuster movies is slow, it has opened the way for a lot of independent movies, especially Australian ones,” Tankard said.

Tankard has shown true determination and resilience to keep his business going and the support of the BSG has meant he is now in a strong position to thrive and grow.

Image of Jesse Tankard Credit: Bega Shire Valley Council https://begavalley.nsw.gov.au/