Shopping small delivers big rewards
Sponsored by American Express
By Alexandra Cain
Melbourne’s eclectic spread of small businesses offer everything from great events to super shopping and culinary experiences. We’ve wrapped up a few of our favourite local spots to enjoy across Melbourne.
Amex’s Shop Small initiative encourages customers to support their favourite local businesses in Melbourne.
If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, Milk & Honey Remedial Massage, nestled in West Melbourne, offers a serene urban oasis for those seeking relaxation and healing. Since 2012, this clinic has combined the benefits of clinical remedial massage with a calming atmosphere, allowing clients to unwind from the stresses of modern life.
Bobbi Pearl, a vibrant Asian fusion restaurant located in the heart of Brighton, has been delighting diners since its opening in 2023. This contemporary eatery redefines modern Asian cuisine by blending traditional south-eastern flavours with innovative culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both fresh and accessible. Catering to diverse dietary needs, Bobbi Pearl offers a range of gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for all guests.
“Whether it’s your local barista taking the time to have a conversation, the pharmacist who delivers medicine to your door when you’re sick or that small business that provides financial support for your children’s sports club, small businesses help keep our communities running,” says Robert Tedesco, vice president and general manager of global merchant and network services for American Express (Amex) Australia and New Zealand.
Indeed, Australia’s small businesses are the bedrock of our economy and communities.
According to the federal government’s National Small Business Strategy released earlier this year, small businesses make up an incredible 97 per cent of all businesses across Australia — contributing up to $590 billion to the economy annually and providing jobs for roughly 5.4 million people.
But beyond the economic metrics are the immeasurable contributions small businesses make to their communities. Tedesco explains: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities and Amex recognises the tireless work they perform to deliver essential services and support the human connections that keep our high streets thriving.”
Milk & Honey Remedial Massage and Bobbi Pearl are both part of Amex’s Shop Small initiative, which encourages its Card Members in Australia and New Zealand to spend locally. And once a year, Shop Small month aims to boost awareness of and support for participating small businesses by offering both them and their customers additional benefits and rewards¹.
Exploring what your community has to offer means supporting the diverse local businesses that make it unique.
Feeling inspired to support your local businesses? There’s a huge range of them involved in the Shop Small movement to inspire your next outing.
South of Johnston, affectionately known as Sojo, is another one. This vibrant cafe located in the back streets of Collingwood, Melbourne, was established in 2012.
With its impressive five-metre ceilings and industrial charm, the cafe has become a beloved local hub, showcasing art from nearby galleries and featuring lush herb gardens for community use. Sojo prioritises quality and sustainability, offering well-priced food and beverages sourced from local suppliers, including free-range meats and organic produce.
The cafe is also committed to environmental responsibility, operating on solar power and engaging in extensive recycling initiatives. With a focus on comfort and hospitality, South of Johnston is the perfect venue for casual dining and bespoke functions, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests.
Then there is Ideal Health, a multi-disciplinary clinic located in Brunswick West, which offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance rehabilitation, fitness and overall wellbeing. With a team of qualified professionals, the clinic provides physiotherapy, osteopathy, Pilates, chiropractic care, myotherapy and dietetics, ensuring tailored treatment for each individual.
The diversity of local businesses means there’s always something new to discover right in your own backyard — and countless opportunities to support your local community.
Since launching Shop Small in Australia in 2013, Amex has delivered over AUD$24million in value and awarded more than 2.1 billion Bonus Points to Card Members through exclusive Shop Small offers, demonstrating a long-term commitment to both small businesses and the customers who support them².
For Shop Small participating businesses like the ones featured here, they can get access to year-round support including opportunities for profile raising, marketing initiatives and incentives to encourage more Amex Card Members to visit their businesses. Find out more about Shop Small Offers here.
* This article contains general advice only. Readers should seek a trusted professional’s advice on financial matters. Please read the applicable product disclosure statement(s) on the Amex website before acquiring any product.
- For full American Express Shop Small Terms & Conditions, visit https://www.americanexpress.com/au/shop-small/.
- Based on internal American Express data from 2013 to 2024.