Newark and Southwell independent retailers fear over potential new year coronavirus restrictions
Independent retailers in Newark and Southwell are fearing new coronavirus restrictions this year.
Following a difficult two years of the pandemic, independent businesses and charity shops are concerned about the prospect of increased restrictions.
Hannah Smith, owner of New Mode Boutique, Middlegate, Newark, was forced to take her business online during lockdown.
She said: "My customers thankfully supported me through the lockdown and obviously it was really hard with the shop having to be closed in the previous location. But thankfully, we got through it and came out of it on top with a new and bigger shop in the town centre.
"This year has been really good, with the relocation of the shop and moving onto Middlegate, we've been busy and people have been back out shopping again. But obviously now with all the uncertainty going forwards, who knows what the future holds?
"It still does seem quite quiet and I think the latest with wearing masks again has slowed things down.
"I think it's put a lot of people off coming out and people have reverted back to online shopping and click and collect. I guess it's a case of wait and see what happens with the government and potential new covid rules.
"Without our customers we won't be here and it will end up with store closures."
Andrew Hind of Sibley's Butchers, Kirkgate, said: "We have no plans but to keep going. It depends what Boris does.
"We've all been very busy, it is our busiest time of year. January and the new year is usually quite busy too — let's hope the customers keep coming into town."
Julie, of Wood and Toys on Chain Lane, added: "We are just hoping to stay open really.
"A lot of people have been shopping locally and supporting small businesses. I hope that continues."
For Bookwise, Queen's Head Court, Newark, the lockdown has taken a toll.
A volunteer said: "We are just trying to keep open but we are struggling to get volunteers.
"Fortunately we were given money from the government, if we hadn't have had that we wouldn't have stayed afloat.
"If we have another lockdown it wouldn't be good — people cant get in to bring book or buy books to raise money for the Music for Everyone charity."
Jackie, manager of the Sue Ryder charity shop on Newark Market Square, explained that many volunteers had underlying health conditions and so have been unable to be in the shop during the pandemic.
She said: "Another lockdown would be really bad for us as a charity. We are a bit scared — fingers crossed for a short lockdown."
Burley's gift shop in Southwell has experienced struggles with supply chain issues and the sourcing of covid-19 precautions including screens and hand sanitiser for the shop, according to owner Carolyn Smith.
"We've risen to the challenge. It is easier in a small town, we don't have the queues of big cities," she said.
"Online has been a huge challenge, with customers using the internet for the first time as needs must, but overall we have survived.
"I think people are supporting small businesses because of their care, and they can ensure safety.
"It has been a good and busy Christmas but there has been some hesitancy."
Despite the success during the Christmas rush, Carolyn said she was concerned another lockdown could cause problems for the business.
"I think it's worrying, we haven't had time to build reserves," added Carolyn.
"We have not had time to recover."
This sentiment was shared by fellow Southwell business owner Tracy Annable, of interior design boutique Home by Tea.
She said: "A lot of us wouldn't survive it again. We haven't finished bouncing back from this year yet. It's forced us to make some changes to how we operate — we set up a much better website so we can do click and collect.
"I think customers are trying to shop local and support small businesses. They would prefer to go somewhere small rather than a big town centre."
Lucy Adams, who runs Real Clothing in Southwell with her husband Rupert, said: "It's been really tough but we've seen a lot more people shopping local and supporting small businesses. They feel safer in a small shop where we can manage the flow of customers.
"We are hoping for a better year with less restrictions, as a husband and wife run business with no other income a lockdown is a concern."
Encouraging data from Newark footfall sensors recorded 18,089 visitors on the busiest weekend of the year, which occurred in December, indicating residents were supporting shops closer to home this festive period.
Newark and Sherwood District Council has thanked these residents and shoppers.
Council leader David Lloyd said: "The data collected by the footfall sensors in Newark is fantastic news. I want to thank our residents who have continued to support their local community this festive season by shopping independently in our wonderful shops and attending our brilliant festive events.
"It is a difficult time for our retailers, local shops and cafés with the increasing rise in omicron cases. But by taking careful measures, limiting numbers in small shops, for example, wearing face masks and regular hand sanitising, we can still support our local businesses who I know are still keen to welcome you safely.
"Some offer online services as well, so for those feeling uncomfortable heading out, please consider searching for your favourite local store online.
"We understand how tough the last two years has been for our local businesses, and we appreciate our businesses leaders' hard work and dedication. I am passionate about supporting our independent retailers, and the district council is committed to the continued support of all our local businesses."
Ian Harrison, markets manager at Newark Town Council, said: “Our strategy to provide regular and significant attractions in the town centre, in the form of street entertainment and music, appears to have been successful and our Christmas markets have been highly popular with both traders and customers.
"Going forwards into 2022 I feel it is essential that we can continue with this and indeed grow a diverse offer, unique to Newark, showcasing our beautiful town and character.”
