Richard Barker, co-owner of Cilla & Camilla (four shops in Dorset, including a cookshop in Sherborne) is optimistic for growth when the pandemic starts to ease. The Sherborne cookshop does not trade online, but performed well when it was open in the second half of 2020.
Richard told HousewaresNews.net: “Since the end of lockdown in June, we have traded strongly in Sherborne when we have been open, showing that there remains a strong demand for physical bricks and mortar.”
He describes this as “sufficiently encouraging” and reports: “As long as we don’t burn too much cash maintaining the business through lockdown, we are looking at the possibility of another cookshop in West Dorset. We have a site, but just need to be confident that we are through business interruptions.”
Richard also reflects: ”Overall, we are hopeful that with continuing low infection rates in Dorset, and an elderly population at the front of the queue for vaccination, we may get through the worst pretty quickly and be well set for Easter and through to the Summer season.
“We’ve also been encouraged by news of further financial help but await the details of exactly what will be offered and when. We would like to see the business rates holiday extended for a further six months to give additional, targeted support while we get fully back on our feet and build cash reserves again.”
Top: Although currently closed and not trading online, Cilla & Camilla Cookshop hopes to get through lockdown and go ahead with plans to expand in West Dorset.
