Our heart goes out to all the independents experiencing and feeling the effects of the civil unrest that is sweeping through cities across England. We have been in touch with many of you particularly in the London area who have been forced to close up early and in some cases board up your shops to protect them. Our thoughts really are with you and hope that you and your businesses stay safe and secure.
Many of the real victims of the riots are the independent or family owned businesses and it is estimated that lost revenue due to damage, looting and early closing could be in the region of £100m. Does your business have a share in this figure and how do you feel about this and trading?
Please do let us know if you have or have not had to close your premises early, if you have experienced any damage to your shop and how has trade and the atmosphere where you are been? Have you been disheartened by these recent acts of needless criminality, or have you seen the kinder side of your community coming together to support you during this time? Are you feeling resilient against the minority of criminals determined to create havoc on your local high street?
We are keen to hear the views and experiences of all our customers across the country and invite you to post messages here on our blog. Please press ‘comment’ underneath this article to share your experience with other retailers.