We're doing very nicely, thank you

Lauren Everitt • Published 19 Dec 2008 09:00 0 Comments

Share this

TRADE in one village appears to be going from strength-to-strength, despite the economic downturn.

Independent retailers in Sunninghill say they are enjoying a boom in sales, against all expectations.

Traders believe the village has one of the best high streets around and are reaping the benefits of its traditional Victorian atmosphere.

Royal Borough councillor Alison Knight, who represents Sunninghill and South Ascot, said: "There are several reasons why shops in Sunninghill are so successful.

"The village has a lovely feel about it and shopkeepers really go out of their way to give personal service. Customers really appreciate these efforts and also the variety of shops on offer."

Cllr Knight shops in the village and says she is always made to feel welcome.

However, some retailers are worried about the possible arrival of a Tesco Express store in the former Stock Exchange building on the High Street, early next year.

Beverley Kirk, owner of The Dragon Shed, says loyal customers have helped her buck the economic trend.

The shop stocks a range of inspirational furniture, gifts and accessories, which are principally Chinese. She said: "My customers are very supportive, but from a personal point of view trade is very different this year than it has been. We have had to work harder and be a little bit cleverer with buying and selling.

"For the first time in a few years, we have decided to do a late night shopping evening.

"Shoppers seem to be holding back a little bit from shopping earlier as they may find a bargain closer to Christmas."

She added: "I don't live in the village but if I did, I wouldn't be happy about the planned Tesco store.

"But for me, it is going to be very convenient to nip out and buy a pint of milk or loaf of bread on the way home from work."

Robert Ellison who owns Chapmans the Ironmongers, believes keeping up-to-date with current trends is the key to success.

He said: "We are doing okay but we cannot stand still. We have to keep moving forward.

"We have kept up a traditional business and kept as much tradition as we can, but at the same time we have to move forward to keep up with our customers' needs."

Mr Ellison said he was also apprehensive about the Tesco store.

He said: "We are a traditional Victorian high street with lots of independent retailers, and Tesco will be treading on toes to a certain extent."

Janet Campbell, owner of Inspirations, on the High Street, said she was banking on a last-minute Christmas rush.

Mrs Campbell said: "As long as we are fair with our prices, people will spend their money in our shop ."

She predicted the Tesco Express would bring more people into the village.

"We can't stop Tesco from coming into the village, but we can try and stop them from enlarging the site."

Tesco spokeswoman Carol Leslie said: "This is an excellent site within a town centre location. Not only will it cater for people shopping in the town but is extremely convenient for residents living nearby who have no transport or those preferring to shop on foot.

"We believe it will benefit the area by encouraging people to shop locally and also cut down on car journeys. An area can only continue to prosper and attract new customers when it provides variety, choice and the services of different retailers."

This article appeared in Villager 12 Dec 08

Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our News archives.

Follow @bracknellnews