Customer-focussed retailers (including cookshops and housewares stockists) who work closely with others in their community are most likely to survive in post-lockdown UK. So says Andrew Goodacres, ceo of the British Independent Retail Association (Bira).
Andrew has drafted possible exit strategy for the retail industry, while calling for restrictions to be first lifted for smaller shops and businesses. He has also created a10-point survival plan for independent retailers in the post-Covid-19 world.
While government support will be much needed, the onus also needs to be on the retailer to adapt to a changing landscape, according to Andrew.
He said: “It’s not all about waiting for government intervention, as retailers themselves must take control of their own destiny.”
His survival strategy urges retailers to consider multi-channel sales, sustainable retail, customer-focussed experiences – and to be brave.
“There will be many new ideas introduced into the world of retailing – some will work and some won’t… be brave,” said Andrew.
However, he warned: “Unfortunately, there are some business that won’t survive. Retail was changing in any case. Covid-19 has bought together communities and, as I have said, I believe the independent retailer is the heart of every good high street.
“With a bit of luck and a lot of the creative, entrepreneurial flair that has always been part of successful retailing, I am confident that the ‘indie’ will continue to serve its consumer.”
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*British Retail Consortium – together with trade union USDAW – has issued new social distancing guidelines as retailers face what their stores could look like post-lockdown.
