Retail director urges Islanders to 'shop local'

A retail leader in Guernsey has encouraged residents to prioritize local shops during the holiday season, warning that independent stores are struggling due to purchases made off-island. Martin Search, director of the Guernsey Retail Group, highlighted that online orders from retailers like Primark have intensified the daily challenges of managing local businesses, a trend he described as harmful to the island.

Late-night shopping in St Peter Port begins on December 4, with several store owners hoping the extended hours will motivate locals to support town businesses. Gemini Clement, who owns the Nautilus clothing store, emphasized the importance of shopping locally to "maintain a vibrant community." Clement, running Nautilus for three decades alongside her brother, noted that some customers are now turning to local shops after unsatisfactory online experiences. "When you receive something and have to return it, it costs money and time. People start realizing their online purchases might have been wasted," she explained. She reiterated that supporting local stores is vital for keeping the community alive.

Ellie Schreibke, proprietor of Maison Lifestyle, explained that the festive period is a significant sales period for her business, accounting for about one-third of its annual revenue. "People appreciate what we offer, and the holiday season is the busiest time for us," she said. She also noted that post-holiday months like January and February often see a sudden drop in visitors, which can be surprising after the Christmas rush.

Nick Martel of Avant Garden and Home described the weeks leading up to Christmas as "critical" for his business. "Every year theres more pressure just to cover expenses and keep the business running," he stated, highlighting the personal stress involved when sales do not meet expectations.

Author: Sophia Brooks