An exclusive members’ survey by the British Independent Retailers Association revealed many business owners had experienced ‘better than expected’ trade following the reopening of non-essential shops. Bira’s CEO Andrew Goodacre has also welcomed the reopening of the hospitality industry – on July 4 in England – as it will further support independent retailers. The members’ survey was carried out to assess how retailers had faired following the reopening of non-essential shops in England on June 15.
Key findings include:
- More than one fifth (22.3%) of respondents enjoyed more than 100% better sales than they would have expected pre-COVID-19; 15% had between 75-100% of expected sales compared to before the crisis. Just 11% had only taken 0-25% of predicted sales.
- Almost 90% (89.3%) had implemented social distancing measures inside their premises.
- 63% had some sort of social distancing measures outside the premises – and had better sales because of it.
- Looking ahead, 30% of respondents feel ‘fully prepared’ for a second lockdown (national or regional), while 49.5% feel ‘somewhat prepared’ if restrictions are implemented again.
Andrew Goodacre said: “The results were encouraging but also highlighted fragile consumer confidence. We welcome the reopening of the hospitality sector in England on July 4, but more help is needed for independent retailers moving forward, such as a reduction in VAT.”
