Glimmer of hope in tough economic times

Amongst all the economic gloom, there is light.
In today's edition of the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend, we report two positive developments in the Western Bay - a resurgence in the residential property market and news that 10 new stores have opened or are about to open in the city.
Latest real estate figures show Tauranga has just recorded its best monthly house sales in 18 months.
Low interest rates have helped inspire new confidence in the residential market, with nearly 200 homes changing hands across the city last month - a 34 per cent increase on the February volume.
Retailers are also showing confidence in the Tauranga CBD by opening new shops, including clothing stores, a nail salon and a shoe shop.
We all know times are tough. People's personal spending is under pressure and this flows on to local businesses.
On page A7 today, we report that the cost of food has risen 5.5 per cent and other price rises - such as petrol, which has gone up 15c in two months, and power - are putting huge pressure on households.
It's in tough times like these that the community can come together and help each other.
Supporting local businesses and buying and selling property is essential to our local economy.
Let's hope these new shops gain plenty of customers and support from the council and other city agencies.
But there's a flip-side to the coin. It's also during times like this that businesses need to ensure their customer service is impeccable. They need to go the extra mile.
There is no room for slack service.