Independent cookshops have expressed their concerns as they plan to reopen this month. The feedback is the result of a member survey conducted by Bira (The British Independent Retailer Association) to see how business owners are feeling.
At Amy’s Housewares in London, Michael Clark said his biggest fear was “…customers not spending, having no trust in the economy.”
Meanwhile, Kim Foster, owner of Copperfields, Whistable revealed: “We are concerned about how much business are we going to receive after lockdown – and supply chain issues.”
At The Moorlands Cookshop in Leek, Jim Simcox admitted: “Our fear is that customers will be reluctant to come back.”
Martin Coles-Evans of Hargreaves, Buxton stated: “We are concerned about adherence to social distancing by members of the public. We hope they comply with our rules for protecting employees and customers.”
Almost 50% of Bira’s respondents (across its membership) said they planned to reopen on June 15. Only 2% of respondents do not plan to reopen at all, with the rest already trading as per government guidance.
Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s ceo commented: “It is great news that many retailers will be opening their doors on June 15 for the first time since March.I am confident that the retailers will ensure that employees and customers are safe. However, there is understandable anxiety regarding business and sales. Re-opening is only the beginning of a long journey back to a sustainable retail business.”
Andrew continued: “We can expect some stored-up demand, but that will be short lived and then retailers will face up to the harsh reality of lower footfall in the shops due to social distancing, and consequently lower sales.
“We will see the independents adjust their business model, implementing appointment-only in some sectors, continuing deliveries and embracing social media and the power of the internet.”
He concluded: “Above all else, they need the customers to come back to the shops and support their local community.”
Bira’s survey also asked members to rate the Government’s coronavirus advice with regards to reopening – the average score was 6.6 out of 10.
* Bira continues to provide retailers with the latest information via its coronavirus hub at bira.co.uk
* Its buying division, Bira Direct now has a range of PPE and social distancing equipment for members to order as they prepare for reopening.
Top: Hargreaves of Buxton is telling its Facebook followers that its cookshop is re-opening on June 15, with strict safety measures in place.
