UK Retail Update: Return of the Pre-Christmas Queues

Amanda Howse
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UK Retail Update: Return of the Pre-Christmas Queues

Shoppers queued outside several stores including Poundland and H&M this weekend in southern England. Across the country all non-essential shops opened for the first time since the second lockdown last Wednesday. Many families were keen to enjoy some weekend retail therapy together in their favourite high street stores, for the first time after a month of restricted commercial activity. This has been due to Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his government ordering a second lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Car parks in most retail centres in Sussex and Hampshire were full and some had queues to enter. Men, women and children all headed into towns and cities happy to brave the extremely cold temperatures and hunt for Christmas presents and other items on their winter wish lists.

There was a festive atmosphere as the councils have already turned on the Christmas lights and buskers merrily accompanied the comparatively busy streets. However there are differences to the scene of the usual pre-Christmas rush this year. Everybody is following social distancing rules and keeping away from others that are not in their household or ‘bubble’. Mask wearing is compulsory, unless people are exempt for health reasons or they are under the age of 11.

“There are too many people without masks.” complained a retired lady waiting outside the busy independent beauty boutique Lush.

In Chichester it was heartening to see so many folk wishing to spend their money locally after the city centre has suffered terribly in recent times. The pedestrianized streets make giving others enough space around you when walking along the old flagstones very convenient, compared to some other high streets with limited pavements. The medieval and Georgian architecture is a joy to experience in all seasons. Chichester looks particularly attractive with many windows and doors adorned with pretty wreaths and tiny strings of lights.

There are several empty shops and ‘gaps’ in the usual wide range of products and prices available to consumers in this affluent area of West Sussex. Retail brands that have closed in the last year or so include the big department store House of Fraser which was known locally as Army and Navy. This historic cornucopia had been a fixture for luxury goods impressively situated directly opposite the famous Gothic cathedral since World War II. Laura Ashley has gone and so has Monsoon and Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Oasis, Cath Kidson plus at least half a dozen other independent boutiques over the last 18 months. Some cafes have also not reopened after the first lockdown in March such as the once very popular Pret a Manger. (1)

This week there was great sadness in the textile industry as Arcadia group which is the parent company of TopShop, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Burton, Evans and several other chains collapsed into administration. (2)

The department store Debenhams had 130 ‘anchor’ stores which featured as a cornerstone in many cities throughout the UK. Debenhams announced it is closing as it is unable to find a buyer. This classic destination for mid-range clothing and home stocks many of Arcadias brands in the form of concessions in its many stores. The tragic commercial closure of these iconic brands could lead to up to 25,000 workers losing their jobs. It was not the only department store group to collapse as Beales also confirmed it would cease trading after 139 years. (3) (4)

In England the marketplace for homeware and clothing sales has always been competitive. Now it more important than ever to be innovative, fashionable and desirable to young people who are influenced by what is happening on social media this week and who are looking to pick up the latest trends both online and in physical stores. There is no room for mediaocracy or lack of clear brand direction in any clothing store in the UK this winter.

Rates and rents have been unachievable for several retailers in the south east this year. The unexpected pressures of coronavirus and sudden lockdowns have disrupted supply chains. This has added extra financial pressure for company directors already dealing with the uncertainty of Brexit, a relatively weak pound and high property costs and taxes.

The ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ is in sight in the form of a countrywide campaign to vaccinate nearly the whole nation. It is hoped the mass vaccination program will mean the end of the restrictions associated with Covid-19 by the summer of 2021. There are a few silver linings to this health crisis, that has had severe economic consequences for many businesses and individuals in our society.

Residents in Sussex are shopping locally and seeking out independent companies to support such as The Eternal Maker (fabric shop and haberdashers), Manuka (wholefoods haven and health food store), Drapers Yard (mix of pop up micro businesses enterprises), Lush (handmade beauty boutique) Montezumas (Chocolate retailer) and the Oxmarket (a centre of arts and crafts and gifts). The farmers markets are really popular in London and the south coast. Buying outdoors makes a lot of sense at present, as experts say it is more than 10 times less likely to catch Covid-19 in the fresh air.

High street shops which sell some essential goods like food and toiletries have done very well this year. This is compared to other sectors within the retail and leisure industry who have suffered unexpected closures. Many budget and pound stores have seen an increased footfall of customers, even though there has been many changes and logistical challenges throughout 2020. Boots and the other chemists have been in demand this year as residents avoid using NHS services unnecessarily and head out locally to pick up all their health care products. It makes sense to take supplements and focus on keeping the immune systems in top condition this year.

However restrictions on the number of patrons allowed within the building and into any selling showroom at one time, has limited the number of transactions that can be made. This is especially important during peak times in the trading day and will be leading to lower sales figures this season for some companies. This is a crucial factor for shops with lower price products where there is less margin is to be gained from each sale. Last month New Look; a fashion outfitters which has almost 500 stores, was narrowly saved from collapsing as landlords agreed to charge the trendy chain by a proportion of its turnover, to avoid unaffordable rents. (5)

Councils have issued guidance for retailers and advised managers that they should limit the number of people allowed per aisle. Traditionally ‘wandering around’ the shops and ‘discovering’ a potential new purchase has been part of the joy of shopping. The ‘one way systems’ introduced in nearly all premises prevent some extra impulse sales. The medical advice that “people should not stay in a shop for more than 15 minutes to avoid contracting a virus.” is essential but does not help struggling organisations. The British Medical Journal states that “The UK’s definition of a ‘close contact’ is 15 or more minutes within 2 metres of distance…used for its coronavirus track and trace system, should curb the spread of COVID-19 infection.” (6)

On the bright side it is possible to shop in some places at ‘off peak’ times until December 25th. Big chain stores such as Marks and Spencer, Next and John Lewis will be welcoming those looking for gifts with extended opening hours, in the run up to the holidays. Primark will be opening 24 hours in some stores to manage the flow of custom through its doors.

 

(1) ‘Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Burton owner goes into administration – your rights’ Steve Noworthy, MSE News, 4 December 2020 ‘Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Burton owner goes into administration’ Steve Noworthy, MSE News

(2) ‘25,000 jobs at risk as Debenhams closure follows Topshop collapse’ Hanna Ziady, CNN Business, 1 December 2020 ‘25,000 jobs at risk as Debenhams closure follows Topshop collapse’ Hanna Ziady, CNN

(3) ‘866 job cuts as Edinburgh Woollen Mill & Ponden Home stores fall into administration’ Eilas Johnson, Retail Gazette, 7 November 2020 ‘866 job cuts as Edinburgh Woollen Mill & Ponden Home stores fall into administration’ Eilas Johnson, Retail Gazette

(4) ‘List of shops that have collapsed in to administration in 2020 as UK lockdown hits high street’ Hannah Baker, Business Live – Retail & Consumer, 1 December 2020 ‘List of shops that have collapsed in to administration in 2020 as UK lockdown hits high street’ Hannah Baker, Business Live

(5) ‘New Look CVA challenged by landlords’ Jonathan Eley, Financial Times, 1 November 2020 ‘New Look CVA challenged by landlords’ Jonathan Eley, Financial Times

(6) ‘UK ‘close contact’ definition for track and trace should curb COVID-19 spread but many uninfected traced’ British Medical Journal (BMJ) 15 December 2020 ‘UK ‘close contact’ definition for track and trace should curb COVID-19 spread but many uninfected traced’ British Medical Journal

(7) ‘All the shops changing their opening hours after lockdown in England’ Heart radio news 24 November 2020 ‘All the shops changing their opening hours after lockdown in England’ Heart

UK gears up to inoculate the country with Covid-19 vaccine

Amanda Howse
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UK gears up to inoculate the country with Covid-19 vaccine

It was announced today that Margeret Keenan, an English grandmother has became the first person to get the new Pfizer/BioNTech jab. The vaccine is being given against Covid-19 to UK citizens in an official national program that will be rolled out across the country. Matt Hancock the Health Secretary named it V-day and Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke of a “huge step forward”. (1)

Care home residents and their carers will be in the initial batch of adults to receive notification that they can have the voluntary inoculations this winter. The second group is everyone aged 80 or over and frontline health and social care workers. Thirdly people over 75 will be called and then fourthly those aged over 70 and those who are clinically vulnerable. The pattern will continue with contacting specific age groups in declining order until all over those at 50 years of age have been vaccinated. The Independent estimated the cost of the innovative Pfizer product to be around £15 per person. (2)

Men and women in their 80’s and above who have been identified by medical experts as being some of the most vulnerable in our society have been invited to receive the jab which prevents people from becoming severely unwell with Covid-19. In order to begin the project safely NHS staff who will be giving the medications to the public have also been part of the initial group to get the potentially lifesaving jabs.

It is a ‘game changing’ moment in the fight to contain the pandemic. The vaccine is proven to reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment for life threatening symptoms of coronavirus. The announcement that regulators in the United Kingdom had approved the vaccine which has been developed by the American company in under a year was welcomed by many leaders and professionals as really positive.

The exciting news offers great hope for a better future in a year where 60000 people have died after contracting the contagious pathogen. In addition many businesses and individuals have suffered negative impacts to their lives from the effects of illness, social distancing and the economic fallout caused by the essential lockdown measures.

The BBC stated that 800,000 doses of the vaccine has been confirmed as allocated to the UK. The projected total order is expected to be 40 Million vials. Two visits to the doctor or nurse three weeks apart are necessary to complete the treatment so this will mean there is enough for 20 million adults to obtain full immunity within a month. (3)

Children are not included in the program at this time as statistics show they are not as affected by the disease which is why there is a focus on protecting our oldest and most clinically vulnerable citizens initially and then gradually progressing down the age groups in sequence.

Challenges to the managing the biggest national medical inoculation plan to be carried out since before World War II include the requirement to “store it at -70C and that it comes in packs of 975 doses, which cannot yet be split into smaller batches.” warns BBC Health Correspondent Nick Triggle.

Fifty regional centres will distribute the precious medication over the forthcoming weeks according to government sources. In Sussex and across the British Isles councils are recruiting for drivers, medically experienced assistance and operations managers to deliver the right amount of medicine to the right residents as quickly as possible. “Trained and trainee vaccinators needed urgently in Sussex” says the advert that appeals for applicants to apply now to be part of the “ambitious programme” as “we have a mountain to climb”. (4)

An additional process undertaken by ‘assemblers’ is required to ensure that the ultra frozen Pfizer/BioNTech liquid vials is transported to care homes correctly. Special containers will keep the packs of vaccinations at refrigerator temperature. The chilled pharmaceutical boxes can then be carried to private healthcare residences that look after senior citizens and vulnerable adults ready to be swiftly administered to their residents within 12 hours. (5)

The American pharmaceutical have partnered with the German manufacturer BioNTech. The well known brand explains that they have developed the solution after focusing their development on a type “called an mRNA vaccine. Unlike conventional vaccines, which are produced using weakened forms of the virus, RNA vaccines can be constructed quickly using only the pathogen’s genetic code.” (6)

They continue to describe how “Many standard vaccines work by injecting a dead or weakened form of the pathogen into the body in preparations that are designed not to make you sick but rather to build immunity. The key to building this immunity is that the portion of the pathogen called the antigen trains the immune system to recognise and respond to the infectious agent. RNA vaccines work by introducing into the body a messenger RNA (mRNA) sequence that contains the genetic instructions for the vaccinated person’s own cells to produce the vaccine antigens and generate an immune response.” (7)

Therefore there is no need to be cautious about the speed at which this vaccine has been approved by the regulators, compared to the traditional process which is usually expected to take several years.

Another American company Moderna joins Pfizer in producing approved vaccines that are expected to be part of large-scale government health programs across the Western world this Spring. The number of doses that these companies are aiming to freshly create in 2021 is now running into more than a billion.

“It’s possible that in the months after vaccination, the number of antibodies and killer T-cells will drop. But the immune system also contains special cells called memory B-cells and memory T-cells that might retain information about the coronavirus for years or even decades.” advises Jonathan Corum and Carl Zimmer of The New York Times today. (8)

Mass immunity should result from this amazing scientific work this year, if all goes to plan. It is up to all of us to try and get the protection offered, as soon as we are contacted by our general practitioners. This will mean we can play our part of the national roll out and prevent ourselves becoming sick after catching coronavirus. Vaccinated people enable doctors to focus their limited resources on treating those in hospital who are already sick and those who are living with other life threatening conditions.

The efficacy rate of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is an impressive 95% according to the scientists pioneering the project. It remains to be seen in practice just how long the immunity will last and when a top up jab will be needed, to boost immunity in a few years, or possibly in as much as a dozen years time. Either way, this is a fantastic day of progress in the fight to beat the virus.

(1) ‘Covid-19 vaccine: First person receives Pfizer jab in UK’ BBC News, 8 December 2020 ‘Covid-19 vaccine: First person receives Pfizer jab in UK’ BBC News

(2) ‘Covid vaccine priority list: Who will get Pfizer jab first?’ Kate Nig Independent. 8 December 2020 ‘Covid vaccine priority list: Who will get Pfizer jab first?’ Kate Nig Independent

(3) ‘Covid: UK vaccination programme getting under way’ Nick Triggle, BBC News, 8 December 2020, ‘Covid: UK vaccination programme getting under way’ Nick Triggle, BBC News

(4) ‘Covid-19 Vaccination Programme’, NHS Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, 8 December 2020 ‘Covid-19 Vaccination Programme’, NHS Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust

(5) ‘Covid-19: Care home vaccinations to start ‘within two weeks’ 8 December 2020 ‘Covid-19: Care home vaccinations to start ‘within two weeks’

(6) ‘Behind the science: what is an MRNA vaccine?’ Pfizer Vaccines, Pfizer UK, 29th August 2020, ‘Behind the science: what is an MRNA vaccine?’ Pfizer Vaccines UK

(7) ‘How the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Works’ Jonathan Corum and Carl Zimmer, The New York Times, 8 December 2020 ‘How the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine Works’ Jonathan Corum and Carl Zimmer, The New York Times

(8) ‘Covid-19 vaccine: First person receives Pfizer jab in UK’ BBC News, 8 December 2020 ‘Covid-19 vaccine: First person receives Pfizer jab in UK’ BBC News

Care Homes Prioritised at Last: New Rules Give Relatives Precious Time With Loved Ones.

Amanda Howse
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Care Homes Prioritised at Last: New Rules Give Relatives Precious Time With Loved Ones.

This Spring the coronavirus outbreak severely affected care homes and their residents in the UK. During the first wave of the pandemic many private care homes were unprepared and left unable to operate safely as the contagion swept through the country. Owners of establishments looking after the elderly and infirm were not able to easily buy the personal protection equipment they urgently needed. This is because most materials that were available, when the crisis hit hard by April of this year, were automatically allocated to the NHS.

“Between 2 March and 12 June this year 28,186 “excess deaths” were recorded in care homes in England, with over 18,500 care home residents confirmed to have died with COVID-19 during this period.” states Amnesty International this Autumn. (3)

Cases of the disease spread through the staff teams and vulnerable residents. This was following a situation where patients, who were discharged from hospital having contracted Covid-19 infections, were being reintroduced back into care homes. Care home nurses were unable to effectively identify and then quarantine people who had become unwell with the dangerous pathogen.

Amnesty Internation has called for a full public enquiry after reviewing the situation during the first national lockdown when: “on 17 March, four days after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, the Government ordered the discharge of 25,000 patients from hospitals into care homes, including those infected or possibly infected with COVID-19.” (3)

A lot has been learned in nine months by officials about how to contain and prevent new Covid-19 cases. New government guidelines that came into force today enables relatives to more easily visit their family members who are living in a care home in England. In all tiers the closest people to a man or women who is currently staying in a care home, can arrange a convenient time to sit with their loved ones and enjoy each others company. The formal guidance summary emphasises how visiting is vital to maintain contact with family and friends and continue life-long relationships whilst contributing to residents support and care.

“Visits to care homes can take place with arrangements such as substantial screens, visiting pods, and window visits. Regular testing will be offered to up to 2 family members or friends per resident by Christmas, which when combined with other infection control measures like PPE – will support indoor visits with physical contact.” (1)

The new procedures outlined in detail yesterday give clear and detailed direction to all registered care home managers who are supported and inspected by the Care Quality Commission.

During the first lockdown testing was not easily accessible and this month care homes are being asked to open their doors to the public after doing a risk assessment, with the promise of more testing kits to become available by Christmas but that are not available yet.

This means normal visits are only advised in Tier 1 areas until the healthcare managers receive the new tests. “Lateral flow devices (LFD) are being provided for this purpose, where the results are available quickly so that the visitor will take the test on arrival, and the visit can only take place provided there is a negative test result.” (2)

A risk assessment of the meeting rooms coupled with monitoring social distancing within the home environment, hand hygiene measures, the wearing of PPE and advising visitors to limit physical contact even if they have had a negative test result is all part of the new guidelines for attending an appointment to see a family member or close friend in a residential care lodge.

Establishing a one-way system through the facility’s interior is recommended where possible. Opening windows and doors is also advised. However as the highest daily temperatures at this time of year are likely to be below 10 degrees this may not be practical at all for managing the space of many frail and elderly folk who need to keep warm at all times.

“Living room temperatures should ideally be kept at 70F (21C) and above whereas bedroom temperatures should be kept at a minimum of 64F (18C)” says Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director of Age UK who adds that ‘It’s vital for older people to keep warm, both inside and outside their homes in the winter months. Being cold, even for just a short amount of time can be very dangerous as it increases the risk of associated health problems and preventable deaths during the winter. (4)

In larger families with many loved ones, choosing two individuals to consistently visit a relative is a difficult situation. This rule will often mean excluding other family members from having any contact at all. This is hard for everyone involved and one of the many sacrifices we have all made this year. 

Nevertheless it is clear that these new regulations are a big improvement. Previously the care homes policies meant nobody being able to visit their relatives, who may have degenerative illnesses such as dementia or be living with cancer or other long term and chronic conditions, that may negatively affect their longevity.

Special provision is made for residents who are judged by the care home managers to be in their final months, weeks and days of life. In this circumstance senior staff are encouraged to enable visits by a residents family as much as is practical to ensure the highest quality of care possible and to allow people to die with dignity.

These ‘end of life’ meetings are to be carried out with the most careful observance of social distancing, hygiene, temperature testing and PPE use possible. Currently in several establishments in Sussex visitors books are used to record who is visiting, their contact details and exactly when they visited. Plastic gloves and aprons and masks are worn by all visitors.

Healthcare assistants that are expert in elderly and vulnerable care are taking good care to help prevent infections spreading inadvertently. This includes keeping individual household bubbles separate at any one time on days that they welcome guests into their residents rooms.

There is good reason to be positive about the future. Private residential care is an important part of our communities. 800,000 doses of Pfizer’s approved vaccine which offers protection against Covid-19 are on their way to the UK this week according to the BBC this evening. “Elderly people in care homes and care home staff have been placed top of the priority list, followed by over-80s and health care staff” it was announced today in a press conference with health secretary Matt Hancock. If all goes to plan we can look forward to meeting together and hugging our seniors in relatively normal manor by the summer holidays.(6)

(1) ‘Local restriction tiers: what you need to know’ Gov.UK website official guidance, 2 December 2020 ‘Local restriction tiers: what you need to know’ Gov.UK

(2) ‘Visiting care homes during Covid-19’, Gov.UK website official guidance, 1 December 2020 ‘Visiting care homes during Covid-19’, Gov.UK

(3) ‘UK: Older people in care homes abandoned to die amid government failures during COVID-19 pandemic’ Amnesty International, 4 October 2020 ‘UK: Older people in care homes abandoned to die amid government failures during COVID-19 pandemic’ Amnesty International

(4) ‘Older people concerned about staying warm at home’ Age UK website, 28 October 2013 ‘Older people concerned about staying warm at home’ Age UK

(5) Image of interior by Illums Bolighus, Copenhagen, Denmark, 3 March 2017 https://www.illumsbolighus.com/

(6) ‘Covid-19: Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine judged safe for use in UK from next week.’ Michelle Roberts, Health Editor, BBC News Online, 2 December 2020 ‘Covid-19: Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine judged safe for use in UK from next week.’ Michelle Roberts, BBC News

 

New Pre Christmas Tiers Announced in the UK

Amanda Howse
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New Pre Christmas Tiers Announced in the UK

Today Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced some more strict new measures that will effect everyone living in the UK from this Wednesday 2nd December.

Only the Isle of Wight, Cornwall and the Scilly Isles are able to more freely enjoy being in Tier 1 due to the lack of coronavirus cases in these locations. This will mean that the rule of 6 will apply indoor and outdoors in these more rural and scenic areas of England.

Most other areas including London, Sussex, Hampshire and Dorset are in Tier 2 which means “the rule of six applies outdoors but there is no household mixing anywhere indoors.” stated the BBC. (1)

In Tier 2 serving substantial meals is the only option for restaurants and public houses to open within the rules that have been set out by the government today.

This will still be an improvement for many businesses in the hard hit hospitality industry who have had to stay completely shut, during the second lockdown in the UK this year.

In the highest level Tier 3 tougher restrictions dictate that people can only meet other households in public spaces and the rule of 6 applies. Only delivery or take-away services can operate under the new rules of Tier 3. This toughest level has important rules about minimising social contact:

“you must not meet socially indoors or in most outdoor places with anybody you do not live with, or who is not in your support bubble, this includes in any private garden or at most outdoor venues” directs the official UK website seriously.

Northern and Midlands counties in Tier 3 include Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Tees Valley Combined Authority and North East Combined Authority. Lancashire, Leicester and Lincolnshire will all be in Tier 3. Additionally Bristol in the West and Kent and Medway in South East will all be in the top tier with the highest alert factor.

Beauty services, hairdressers and gyms can all reopen from this Wednesday. Many families will be assessing what impact this has on their traditional Christmas arrangements. It seems that most will be expecting a quiet and peaceful festive week with an emphasis on using the latest technology like Zoom and Teams to meet with friends and loved ones. People of all ages want to protect their nearest and dearest and this year that means socially distancing and continuing to carry out daily life in our existing bubbles.

“Hope is on the horizon but we still have further to go.” said Matt Hancock speaking in the Commons earlier.

For example, relatively prosperous coastal Sussex has been comparatively less hard hit, compared to other areas across the country, in terms of the prevalence of Covid-19 cases. The West Sussex county council website warned that this afternoon that “There are an increasing number of confirmed cases across the county, in line with national trends. There were 1,027 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in West Sussex in the seven days to 18 November 2020.” (2)

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson is leading the current national restrictions which will apply and will stay in place until December 2nd when they are replaced by the new Tier system. “The government is committed to ensuring the right levels of intervention in the right places to manage outbreaks, suppress the virus and keep R below 1” explains the governments official website which has all the details on each of the 3 tiers and what activities can and cannot take place this month. (3)

All the ‘Non-essential’ retail shops will be preparing excitedly about being able to reopen after the lockdown ends on December 2nd. The pre-Christmas trade is crucial for shops of all sizes. This reopening will be especially key to secure the jobs of all staff who work for independent businesses, who do not have large reserves to weather the closures caused by this unexpected pandemic, in the long term.

Polehill garden centre in Kent is deemed an essential business’ under the current commercial classifications. Polehill will continue to trade next week as they have been able to throughout the 2nd lockdown. However the popular restaurant will still remain closed, until this area’s Tier 3 rating is downgraded again by officials. (4) Westminster’s top team aim to review the restrictions on December 16th and there is an extra dispensation for the days around Christmas to allow up to 3 households to meet if they feel they absolutely need to share this event together this year.

The future still looks bright as there are several approved vaccines in the pipeline this month. County councils have started recruiting for assistants to help roll out a mass vaccination program across the country. Sometime later in 2021 we are all looking forward to some long awaited social occasions to safely physically reunite with all the special folk in our lives once again.

(1) ‘Covid-19 tiers: Almost all of England facing tough virus rules’ BBC News 26 November 2020 ‘Covid-19 tiers: new rules’ BBC News

(2) ‘COVID-19 alert level, weekly data and Outbreak Control Plan’ West Sussex county council, 26 November 2020 (2) ‘COVID-19 alert level, weekly data and Outbreak Control Plan’

(3) ‘Local restriction tiers: what you need to know’ Gov.UK 26 November 2020 ‘Local restriction tiers: what you need to know’ Gov.UK

(4) ‘Christmas’ Polehill The Home of Gardens, Garden Centre in Kent, 26 November 2020 ‘Christmas’ Polehill Garden Centre in Kent

An Optimistic Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce Approaches 100th Anniversary

Amanda Howse
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An Optimistic Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce Approaches 100th Anniversary

Next year the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to celebrating the 100th year anniversary of its formation. A series of events that will take place in London and online will mark the centenary in high style.

This will be an opportunity to honour all the good work the Chamber executives have done over ten decades, for both of the economies each side of the Atlantic. Currently all its members are navigating the unknown impact of Brexit on international trade. All this after a year that Matthew Moth, President of the of Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce described as full of “tragedy, upheaval and hardship that families, friends and business partners have experienced….and a quarter of a year of lockdown.”

Since 1921 the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce has facilitated meaningful connections between business leaders in Canada and the UK. Their mission is to be the foremost non-governmental authority on all aspects of the two-way trade and investment between Canada, the UK and Europe.

The Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce values their exceptional members who are nearly all experts in business. The group thrives on the positivity that is created during all the events that the Chamber holds that bring people together each season.

The Chamber has facilitated bilateral business relationships for nearly 100 years. Incorporated as a UK company since 1927 its members are comprised of representatives from some of the UK and Canada’s most recognisable businesses. The Chamber is still in full swing and has adapted to the challenges faced by all organisations during the coronavirus pandemic. This prestigious club has achieved this by holding virtual webinars and keeping members in touch online when social distancing rules prevent any conferences and networking socials in person.

Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London SW1Y 5BJ is the monumentally grand address of this established business focused club. There is a ‘Leadership Team’ headed up by the company president Matthew Moth and his team of seven professional business leaders. There is also a Board of twenty-two Directors who are senior industry figures. Seven Board Observers also add their commercial experience to oversee operations at the Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce.

More than 300 companies in the UK and Canada and beyond are members of the Chamber. Over a thousand people attended events in 2020 and more than 25 different ‘get togethers’ of different sorts happened due to the Chamber’s work and preparations.

Chamber Secretariat Jan Bertelsen really enjoys his role helping to develop new business and networking connections with the UK-Canada Chamber of Commerce. Building on his commercial background in retail and fashion industries, Jan has seven years experience driving change and championing high standards with both European and Canadian Chambers of Commerce in London.

Mr Bertelsen explains that there are different levels of membership for various types of companies and also individuals. An example would be for a small or medium sized enterprise who may choose to invest in an initial membership of around £460+vat. The Chamber team can make introductions to their members can open big doors of opportunity for both developing entrepreneurs and also more long standing companies that would benefit from new clients and connections.

Jan describes how webinars can be a chance to “take the lead and share knowledge and best practice with other executives and technical people. You can showcase yourself. The Chamber also offers a special package that will get personal ambassadors onboard, who will directly promote your company.”

The Chamber Secretariat recommends that “the added value of having talented Chamber representatives on your team can be quantified in terms of thousands of pounds, which makes the membership fee an excellent deal.” He also adds that the UK-Canada Chamber of Commerce Members Directory is being printed next month. This handbook for communicating between the clubs organisations and will be widely circulated. Signing up for membership this November ensures an individual listing inclusion in this valuable future publication.

The UK-Canada Chamber of Commerce group their activities into forums. These are sectors that ensure their members are engaging with people from the relevant economic areas and interests. The forum for the ‘Creative Industries’ includes the arts, design, media, information technology, software, advertising, architecture and public museums and events.

There is also a forum for the ‘Energy’ industry, ‘Mining and Natural Resources, Property and Infrastructure’, ‘Technology’ and ‘Health and Life Science’.

The ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ forum makes sure everyone is included fairly and champions equality. The ‘SME’ forum guides and assists small and medium sized enterprises so they can develop successfully.

The Chamber has its own constitution which sets out all the details of how this Limited company operates and how the meetings must be held correctly. The constitution outlined the procedures of how the committee is nominated, usually on an annual basis.

The Chamber prioritises creating first acquaintances to encourage and foster business development. An impressive array of companies lend their brand logos to this important trade association between the two countries. Canada and the UK share a great cultural and trading partnership, that goes back hundreds of years. Well known institutions such as AstraZeneca, Air Canada, Bell and the Canary Wharf Group are amongst a long list of successful corporations represented.

As well as making it possible for founders and experts in several diverse fields and different locations to make new contacts, the Chamber also raises money for worthwhile causes at many of their talks and presentations. These upbeat social sessions are arranged both in the daytime and in the evenings depending on the subject explored.

The UK-Canada Chamber of Commerce’s president Mr Moth acknowledges that the challenges are great but nonetheless he reaches out to the Chamber’s members to help continue to drive forward progress and innovation.

This month politicians, management consultants and chiefs of industry are discussing a crucially economically important bi-lateral agreement between Canada and the UK, that will commence this January.

2021 will also be a significant centenary milestone for the Chamber, which prides itself on both creating strong business opportunities and the importance of contributing to good causes. A key philosophy of its members is furthering the goals of equality and enabling a sustainable future, for their wider communities. Everybody is hoping that with new vaccines against Covid-19 on the horizon that a really splendid occasion can take place next summer.

It will be fantastic to joyfully commemorate a century of the UK and Canada Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to developing peace, trade and prosperity between these two wonderful nations. The Chamber’s role has never been more relevant as employers and managing directors worldwide endeavour to keep communicating and help each other to survive and progress. We think that the Chamber will certainly be here to mark their bicentennial, as both Canada and the UK have so much in common and a determination to help make the world a better place, for many more generations in the future.

(1) Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce website Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce website

(2) Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce LinkedIn page Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce LinkedIn page

(3) Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce Facebook page Canada-United Kingdom Chamber of Commerce Facebook page

How to Design a Garden Studio During Lockdown

Amanda Howse
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How to Design a Garden Studio During Lockdown

2020 has seen a huge shift in the way we are all working across the globe. In England the population density can be high, especially around the crowded major cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester and Southampton. There is now frequently a need for many professionals, to find space for an extra room or two, in order to more comfortably work from home.

This is because the UK and many other countries are in the second phase of a national lockdown. The government is requiring us all to do our jobs from our own houses, as much as possible, to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Thousands of people in the UK have already chosen to move to a new property, often in a more rural location, in order to obtain the necessary extra square footage for their essential home offices.

Many more individuals, couples and families have decided to make alterations to their existing abode. This is so they can complete their daily tasks in a designated work area with all the equipment they need for their selected industry.

Step 1 – Check your local planning regulations

To begin to build a garden studio the first thing to do is to simply measure out the space available for the foundations accurately. Take into consideration that you will need a border of at least a third of a meter around your luxury shed for future ongoing maintenance and drainage.

Next find out what the current building regulations are in your area by visiting your local council’s website and scrolling through the planning section until you find ‘outbuildings’.

How close your proposed building is to your boundary, is also an important consideration that is regulated by the planning authorities. This planning website offers a good general overview of all the key points to check initially, to ensure you are building within the rules of permitted development. (1)

Step 2 – Establish the brief

A brief is defined by the Oxford dictionary as “a set of instructions given to a person about a job or task.” (2) Your garden studio brief can be a mixture of a list of written points and some images.

Write down what activities you will be doing in you new space. Remember to include other peoples activities, if you will be sharing your studio with somebody else in your household. Then add the related facilities you will need to carry out these activities. So for example if you are planning to make and receive conference calls you will need a desk, chair, computer, screen, webcam etc.

How often will you be using your garden studio and for what months of the year? Knowing the frequency of use will help you make decisions about quality of finishes and expenditure.

Think about what electricity, lighting and heating you will need. This is a good time to think about the utilities required and what type level of insulation is needed which will help keep your running costs down.

What way does your garden face and what will be the best aspect for your structure? Using natural light can be crucial if the room is going to accommodate creative pursuits like drawing, painting and crafting. Most activities like reading, talking to others on the telephone or physical enterprises like yoga are improved with incorporating the sun’s natural rays and most artist studios face north.

Note down your ideal size, height, width and depth to accommodate any specific items or furniture you wish to install. It can be tempting to add curves and to aim for a strong geometric shape. This can absolutely lead to a wonderful design that fits brilliantly into an outdoor area. Just be aware that any non-traditional complicated shapes will add significant costs in terms of build time and costs. This is because of the complexity of decoratively shaping the materials and the additional joins involved.

Think about how you would like to feel in your new place. Making a sample board of ideas is a real help to guide your decisions about the type of textures and styles you would like to use in your unique design.Just gather magazine cut outs and samples from manufacturers you favour to help get some inspiration, so your finished structure has a resolved look and a harmonious style.

How will your studio shed fit into the current landscape? Usually architects aim to create a cohesive environment. This fresh structure could be set amongst a built up modern architectural area between several properties or hidden within an orchard in the countryside. It is useful at this stage to know whether you are trying to blend in or stand out visually against your existing surroundings.

What is your budget? Are the maximum costs of materials and labour fixed or is there any room for manoeuvre should purchases mount up and unexpected problems with construction arise?

What is the weight of your contents? What type of floor you choose will depend if any heavy machinery for example is required. Will you be hanging anything heavy from the walls or the ceiling? How sturdy your construction needs to be is dependant on these important factors.

What are your accessibility needs? This could be making sure that your have the right mobility equipment for the users. Allowing wide doors and flat and gently sloping flooring surfaces can allow your building to be fully accessible to wheelchair users and children’s pushchairs too.

What is the lifespan of the project? Your mission might be to temporarily designing for the short term in order to keep your job productivity high, during this year when travelling unless absolutely necessary is prohibited. Conversely you may be investing in a long term addition to your beloved residence. If this is the care then thinking about making your cabin as useable for future generations and any future homeowners as possible, will give you the most flexibility and longevity of use for all your efforts.

Weatherproofing is worth considering in your brief. How much is required will depend where you live. Avoiding water ingress at all stages is crucial to enjoying a water tight and durable room that will be warm and dry for many years to come. Orientated strand board (OSB) composite roofing tiles, UPVC double glazed windows and many other construction components can be specified with an inbuilt resistance to moisture. It is worth paying extra on pre-treated elements in order to avoid spending time on extra processes in order to avoid any ingress from rain or dew.

Step 3 – Consider your unique opportunities

It is worth considering if there are specific building materials that are particularly readily available in your situation. Perhaps a traditional log cabin is the way forward if you live near a big forest. If your brother works in the construction industry you may find he can get you an amazing deal on teak coloured composite cladding a client ordered in error. If a house in your street is bring demolished because they are building a new one from ground up, then some large pieces of reclaimed oak could become the focus of your original hideaway residence. It makes sense to work with ‘what you have in hand’ during a pandemic and it saves precious resources.

Equally if your uncle is an accomplished carpenter then choosing timber that allows his skills to shine and your cool cabin to be completed quickly is a clever choice. This is time to ‘play to your strengths and think outside the box. 3D printed ‘bricks’ and other alternative components may make a brilliant studio, if your family is a wizz at engineering and technology and has the time to innovate as they develop their new home layer by layer.

We would advise that pouring concrete foundations and laying a damp proof course is well worth the investment. A portable concrete mixer can be hired and the liquid aggregate mix can be added in sections by anyone with some muscles who isn’t afraid of getting their hands dirty. Similarly choosing the latest insulating foam boards in the right thicknesses can can be easily cut to size and shape with a Stanley knife means simply creating a cosy hut without any hassle can be the DIY endeavour that can be achieved by any enthusiastic homeowner.

Alternatively if your needs are simple and you are in a hurry there are plenty of companies that will deliver and install a basic wooden summerhouse ready to paint in the colours of your choice in a week or two. This is the right choice if you must stick within a particular budget as all the components are included, with the labour, in the total price advertised by the luxury shed retailers. If you would like the experience and skills development of building your own getaway den that will match your current mansion perfectly, then making a new dwelling from scratch is the way to go.

Step 4 – Designing your dream pad

Plan view of garden studio by Create Display
Plan view of garden studio by Create Display

If you are good at drawing either on a drawing board or digitally using computer aided design software (CAD) it is recommended that personally drawing out to scale the intended finished building structure is an excellent way of making sure you get an accurate quote and your dream pad can be finished within your timescale and budget.

Basic plan of garden studio by Create Display
Basic plan of garden studio by Create Display

Hand drawing can give you an opportunity to explore your concept freely. Use tracing or layout paper so you can easily trace your drafts to try out different possibilities. A scale rule, set square, pencil and rubber is cheap and easy to use. Usually a scale of 1:20 size will give you a proportionally accurate image of your future home office that will sit nicely on an A3 sized page. When you are happy with your shapes, ink in your lines to form your finished design with fine ‘Rotring’ type pens. Always add a title and a date to your drawings to avoid any confusion.(4)

Garden Studio Front Elevation by Create Display
Garden Studio Front Elevation by Create Display

We recommend sketching a plan view, a drawing of all your elevations, or sides of your cabin as well as a back and front elevation if appropriate. It can be a good time to think abut the shape of your roof and if any overhangs or verandas are needed. A gable shaped canopy can be a feature and also create shade or cover from the weather. Sometimes there is an attractive undercover place for seating, storage and equipment. Colouring in the monochrome lines on your paper can immediately give life to the thoughts on your pages and make the tricky connections that will require more detailed consideration with your builder (if you are hiring one) apparent.

Have a look at what windows and doors are easily purchased during this time of great change in the construction industry. Shopping at local independent shops helps small businesses stay afloat during these challenging times. Using recycled wood, tiles, doors and windows can save money as well as be a smart way of preserving the environment. Ask friends who might be building a rear extension if they have any unwanted original kitchen windows and back doors, for example.

Ebay is a super place for buying second hand and pre-loved is brilliant for the respecting the planet’s limited natural resources. Facebook Local is also becoming very popular. Using upcycled items in your own outdoor dwelling will give you a unique look and can add lots of character as well as give you more pounds to spend on quality finishes and your interior decoration. (5) (6)

If the thought of precisely outlining a real extension to your living palace fills you with panic then just call an architect who will happily put you in touch with an experienced draughtsperson. Most good builders will be more than happy with an amateur attempt at articulating a custom hut. Add lots of notes with arrows for labelling specific products, quantities and sizes if you can. Including all the major information about what the customer wants will give them the details they need to start organising tools, equipment, trade assistants and materials.

Using video calling to get quotes can be a useful way of communicating the size and scale of the project as well as giving potential tradespeople visual facts about access, parking and logistics that are involved for the deliveries that will be needed. Take into account the hours of daylight that will be available to work in during the winter as this will effect how much progress can be made. A look at the long term weather forecast can help set realistic goals about how many days you may potentially need to cancel the team being on site until you have finished constructing your roof effectively.

Once you have decided who will be managing your new home office project you can incorporate their ideas and techniques into your plan. It is worth meeting together and going over the intended procedures. Using building materials in their original sizes saves time. For example making the walls the same size as the largest sheet timber your yard produces means less cuts and adjustments to ensure your room is square and the heights are totally level on each wall section more conveniently.

To summarise, managing a studio built and fit out project is well within most peoples abilities. With a ‘can do’ attitude to try a new DIY technique it can be a lot of fun and another benefit can be the added value to your property too. A successful outcome mostly comes down to an awareness of time, money and resources. Like all jobs involving heavy objects, heights and power tools a keen focus on health & safety is essential to avoid any unwanted accidents.

Ordering the materials you will need for the first part of the build in advance is sensible. This means when Day 1 of the build arrives you have everything you need to get started. Remember to gather the tools, equipment and fixings ahead of time and don’t forget the kettle and portable radio to keep everyone’s spirits up!

 

(1) ‘Outbuildings – Planning Permission’ Planning Portal 20 November 2020, ‘Outbuildings’, Planning Portal website

(2) ‘Oxford Languages and Google’ Google’s English dictionary is provided by Oxford Languages, 20 November 2020 ‘Oxford Languages and Google’ Google’s English dictionary is provided by Oxford Languages

(3) ‘Government advice on home moving during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak’ Gov.UK official government website, 20 November 2020 Gov.UK official government website

(4) ‘rOtring 800+ A hybrid design’ rOtring official website, 20 November 2020 ‘rOtring 800+ A hybrid design’ rOtring official website

(5) ‘Home & Garden’ Ebay UK website, 20 November 2020 ‘Home & Garden’ Ebay UK website

(6) ‘Facebook Local App for Apple and Google Play’, Facebook Local website, 20 November 2020 ‘Facebook Local App for Apple and Google Play’

 

Whats the Future of Optical Retailing in the UK?

Amanda Howse
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Whats the Future of Optical Retailing in the UK?

“I only ever go to my local family optician in the village who has been there for years.” remarked one Hampshire lady in her 70’s. Her reason was that she trusted her optician with the eyesight and that he gave her constantly exceptional personal service over many years. Her glasses were also on the expensive end of the spectrum at around £500 per pair. Not everyone has access to private transport which is an issue especially during lockdown. Some residents choose to support their local eyesight expert and his or her small business during these challenging economic times to make sure their local facility can remain a feature of their town or village.

“The long-awaited growth of online selling is becoming a reality….online selling of glasses is beginning to benefit from digital developments that allow customers to visualise how they will look in their glasses.” explained Ms Westgarth of industry analysts Mintel in the online publication Optometry Today in March of this year. (8)

Smart phones, computers and digital devices with web cameras mean that it is simple to download a program or application that can take several photos any individual and create a way to simulate in ‘3D’ how a person looks in their potential new frames. Specsavers have ‘Frame Styler’ and Vision Express have a ‘Virtual Try On’ service on their websites.

The future looks bright for the biggest opticians in the UK as the value of this industry continues to rise to over £3 billion. This success is due to continuing demand for spectacles and the vision needs of an ageing population. (Source: Mintel)

Smaller independent opticians are finding it harder to compete with the big brands as citizens look for value and the range of frames when it comes to purchasing their precious and practical accessories. Several online companies offer savings on buying contact lenses which can easily be posted in multiple packs of between 3 and 30 units. They are able to compete as they do not have all the stores overheads such as staffing, rates and an expensively equipped shop interior in a town centre location.

The market for selling spectacles online is developing with companies such as Bloobloom, Glasses Direct, Ace & Tate and Glasses2U inviting anyone with access to the internet to upload their recent prescription and pay for purchasing glasses. These individual products are then made to order and delivered straight to their home.

There is usually an option to return the new items if they don’t fit quite right. Glasses Direct send a few sample pairs in order for people to be able to try on in person and then choose their favourites in the comfort of their own private space.

At the top end of the market Cubitts and Premiere Optical make unique combinations for completely one off bespoke glasses. MoneySavingExpert’s Steve Noworttny offers a word of caution though as “If you make a mistake with entering prescription details, you aren’t necessarily guaranteed a refund or exchange.” (9)

It is worth considering the pros and cons of shopping online versus visiting a physical store. Shopping online for corrective eyewear of any sort does not offer the personal service, latest medical tests (for glaucoma for example) style advice or experienced personal impressions of how your new frames suit you. Importantly the custom design and fitting that a large opticians is able to deliver so effectively is not available online. Plus if there are any problems with a product that is bought in store then a consumer can just make an appointment to ‘pop back in’ and ask for a second opinion. It is also easy to request for some small frame adjustments to be made ad ask any questions about claning and maintaining your eyewear.

Opticians and businesses that sell both glassesand contact lenses are clearly all set to enjoy positive bottom lines as UK consumers prioritise their healthcare during the ongoing pandemic. Competition in the market place means getting a good deal on vision solutions and a high level of customer service is definitely achievable even on a smaller budget. The NHS is subsidising certain frames and prescriptions for those on low incomes.

However for many average earners and young working people, receiving a more complex lense prescription (such as needing thinned lenses and varifocals) can mean choosing very carefully when and where to invest financially in frames that they will need to last a few years or more. See our article Need New Specs? Optical Services All Open Despite 2nd Lockdown for more details of how the prices can vary across the retail industry.

It is commonplace for frames with lenses to total more than £500 per pair with several of our high street retailers. Sam Knight’s excellent article in the Guardian in 2018 explains that “even top-of-the-range frames and lenses cost, combined, no more than about £30 to produce.” Knight explain that there is a closely controlled supply chain situation in Europe with very few companies like EssilorLuxottica making a high percentage of the products that are sold by every business in the optical marketplace. This means profit margins can be at around 500% markup or more. Ana Swanson of Forbes magazine accuses the industry in America of price fixing. (4)

In the future digital menus and screens in our glasses will help make work and play easier and more fun. Google Glass “wasn’t a big hit in 2014 when it was launched” according to Dalvin Brown of USA Today. The trend for augmented reality headsets has practical applications in the medical, scientific and military world and Google announced a new range called “Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2” at a $999 price point. The headsets are inspired by classic Ray Ban style frames and also have a built in camera, computer processor and charging battery. (5)

Technology is making it more fun and convenient to buy the most suitable products and also to spot any underlying health problems in advance, to ensure a lifetime of optimised vision, for everyone living in the UK.

 

(1) Mintel reports steady market gowth for optics’ Kimberley Young, Optometry Today, 5 March 2020 https://www.aop.org.uk/ot/industry/high-street/2020/03/05/mintel-reports-steady-market-growth-for-optics

(2) ‘Cheap Glasses, Full cost-cutting tips’ Steve Nowottny, MoneySavingExpert, 7 June 2016 https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/family/cheap-glasses/

(3) ‘The spectacular power of Big Lens’ Sam Knight, The Guardian, 10 May 2018 ‘The spectacular power of Big Glasses Eyewear’ Sam Knight, The Guardian

(4) ‘Meet the Four-Eyed, Eight-Tentacled Monopoly That is Making Your Glasses So Expensive’ Ana Swanson, Forbes magazine, updated 1 October 2017 ‘Meet the Four-Eyed, Eight-Tentacled Monopoly That is Making Your Glasses So Expensive’ Ana Swanson, Forbes

(5) ‘Google Takes Another Stab at Google Glass’ Dalvin Brown USA Today Tech 13 November 2020 ‘Google Takes Another Stab at Google Glass’ Dalvin Brown USA Today

Need New Specs? Optical Services Are All Open For Business Despite 2nd Lockdown

Amanda Howse
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Need New Specs? Optical Services Are All Open For Business Despite 2nd Lockdown

On the 5th of November 2020 England entered a 2nd lockdown after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new measures in order to slow and prevent the spread of coronavirus. The government’s strategy is to ease the pressure on the NHS and care organisations. The hope is this action will be enough to make sure that the public sector resources can cope, when the inevitable winter pressure on services is added onto the need to look after many people who also need treatment after contracting Covid-19.

Only mixing with people from your own household is possible apart from a few exceptions which include meeting one other person outside in a park for example. The lockdown is set to last until December 2nd which will be a four week restriction across England. Nearly all activities apart from work, exercise, childcare and education are now strictly limited. This time some organisations such as schools, garden centres and essential shops will stay open and cafes and restaurants are able to sell take away drinks, snacks and meals.

This all means the experience of going to the Opticians and shopping for glasses in 2020 has changed significantly compared to last year. There are new procedures in order to enable the process of having your eyes tested by an optician, viewing the sample frames on display and gaining advice from a glasses or contact lense fitting optical assistant.

Manufacturing custom frames and checking the fit of your glasses or lenses all takes slightly more time, as measures to limit the spread of Covid-19 are put in place across the whole industry.

Although in normal times it would be fine to just pop in to the opticians on your lunch break, it is now necessary to book an appointment in advance, to view the samples of glasses. This also applies to being tested by an ophthalmic doctor to obtain fresh prescription. Regular sight check ups are essential to obtain the best vision for driving and to optimise your overall eye health. An adult eye examination is recommended at least every two years.

The showrooms are all limiting the amount of customers in the building at any one time to keep everyone correctly socially distanced. All the eyewear which is tried on by clients are collected on trays. Then the selected frames are carefully disinfected by the sales assistants, using an alcohol based solution in between every client. Furniture, shelving and computer equipment is all very frequently wiped over to limit any germs passing from person to person through the touching of surfaces.

Hand sanitiser is available for all visitors at the entrances to each area and face masks are worn by staff and customers whenever possible. One advantage is that your opticians is likely to be a lot cleaner and less crowded than ever before. The flip side is that opticians are limiting the amount of people allowed into their premises at any one time. This results in some neat but occasionally rather lengthy queues of safe distanced households spread along the street. This is fine in dry weather but can be a little frustrating on inclement days. Everyone knows that the queues are for a good reason. All the health care professionals are doing their very best to help everyone keep safe and get served to a very high standard. Restricting numbers means social distancing inside the building is easier for the optical team to manage.

Boots is the biggest chain with over 600 stores nationwide. The British company prides itself on both a high standard of service and stocking some trendy budget friendly products too.

“On a budget? We have a great selection of Boots own branded frames starting from only £40 without compromising on quality….choose any two pairs from our Boots £40 range and pay just £60 for them both. ” advertises their website this week. (1)

The traditional beauty and healthcare provider is the oldest on the high street and was founded in 1849 by John Boot. However the companies nostalgic website doesn’t really give an accurately up to date picture of this now internationally owned organisation. (2)

In 2012 American chain Walgreens aquired a 45% stake in Alliance Boots. (2) In an article for The Guardian in 2016 entitled ‘How Boots went rogue’ Aditya Chakrabortty outlines how the Alliance Boots owners have based the well known pharmacy business in the Cayman Islands, Switzerland and more recently Dellaware in the USA. (3)

Boots has a reputation for customer service and quality and their slogan is “your health is at the heart of everything we do”. Currently they have an offer of half price on all additional pairs of frames. Plus this month there is a 25% reduction in the price of glasses and sunglasses for the over 60s age group. Their designer labels include Ray-Ban, Longchamp, Calvin Klein, Ted Baker and Jigsaw. They are open as usual throughout the second lockdown and have appointments available this week. (1)

Vision Express is one of the biggest players in ophthalmic and dispensing opticians sector. The company has been trading since 1988 and is owned by a French parent company Grand Vision according to Wikepedia. (4) They can be found in some of the best high street locations such as overlooking the general marketplace in the main square in Cambridge. Vision Express have a clinically neat showroom of covetable frames and the team at this well respected opticians also offer initial appointments for laser eye surgery. (5)

“Last month Vision Express shocked the industry after announcing it will acquire Tesco Opticians…As a result, a further 209 stores across the UK and Republic of Ireland will be brought under its leadership by the end of the year, bringing the total number of Vision Express outlets to 599, placing the new entity just behind Boots for store count.” stated the Optician newspaper in the summer of 2017. This Optician publication is an excellent article all about the major players in the market in Great Britain, Scotland and Northern Ireland. (6)

Large windows allow lots of natural light into the Vision express showroom in Cambridge and make for a pleasant browsing experience. There are some top of the range brands to choose from. These include RayBan, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein,Ted Baker, Lacoste and Mulberry and who knew David Beckham has his own line in celebrity endorsed eyewear!

The Vision Express eye specialists are currently offering 25% off contact lens subscriptions. They are advertising a ‘buy one get one half price’ on frames promotion but which is great for simple prescriptions but if your accessories budget is limited the lenses can get very expensive and can easily head into over £500 territory.

Then laser eye surgery at around £5000 suddenly looks rather more feasible. A procedure that could mean ditching the face furniture for the rest of your life, is the same cost as ten pairs of glasses with lenses that are on the more complex and sophisticated side price wise.

Specsavers are found on most high streets and also in Sainsburys supermarkets. They are a great place for customer service, contact lenses and young and trendy styles. We have been really impressed with our enthusiastic and helpful local team and the knowledgable young opticians that go the extra mile without rushing.

At the beginning of November there were many questions about how the company will be operating this month that optical managers and their assistants did not know the answer to. This was due to head office management not having any time to communicate with their store teams as the government announced the 2nd lockdown on a Saturday evening and most operations directors and senior company leaders do not over the weekend. This confusion has been the same across the whole commercial retail and leisure industry. Many workers across the country were are shocked and worried by the announcement which has affected their jobs and incomes again.

“I don’t know if we will be open for you to be able to pick up your order of contact lenses at the end of the week. To be on the safe side we will post them to you which will cost an additional £3.50” said the optical assistant today.” She went onto explain that during the first lockdown they were only seeing emergency patients and treating eye problems so she thought that might be the case again this month. It turns out that Specsavers and other opticians are still making appointments for regular customers. Specsavers have built a friendly and cosmopolitan brand and they are very popular with the general public who enjoy the upbeat optical experience.

Asda is owned by the American giant Walmart and also provides optical services and the custom manufacture of glasses, as well as fitting contact lenses. (7)

Asda are the most competitively priced business currently promoting their ‘2 designer pairs for £180’ (or £120 depending on price band). This deal includes varifocals and ‘thin and light’ lenses too. Their basic value frames start at £45. For women Asda sells ‘Flower’ eyewear by Drew Barrymore plus a whole lot of well known names: Morgan, Baby Phat, Oasis, Goldigga, Joan Collins, Firetrap, Nine West and Warehouse. Asda even have a sparkly Swarovski crystal range.

Asda’s Menswear labels include Davidoff, Dunlop, Gola, Accessorise and Racing Green. Like the other optical stores featured here they also have a children’s selection.

This means that this month Asda are half the price of Vision Express and Specsavers for a more complicated adult prescription. We found the customer service to be professional and carefully done with an individual touch from an optical team who cared about how the glasses they were recommending would make a positive difference to their public’s lives.

So if you are looking for a budget friendly option or have a big family to purchase for choosing Asda is clearly a smart decision.

 

(1) ‘Great Value Glasses’ Boots Opticians, 2 November 2020 ‘Great Value Glasses’ Boots Opticians

(2) ‘Boots Heritage’ Boots website, 11 November 2020 ‘Boots Heritage’ Boots website

(3) ‘How Boots went rogue’, Aditya Chakrabortty, 31 April 2016 ‘How Boots went rogue’, Aditya Chakrabortty

(4) Vision Express, Wikipedia, 11 November 2020 Vision Express, Wikipedia

(5) ‘Book your eye test’ Vision Express, 23 October 2020 ‘Book your eye test’ Vision Express

(6) ‘The top UK optical chains 2017’ Jo Gallacher, 26 May 2017 ‘The top UK optical chains 2017’ Jo Gallacher 26 May 2017

(7) ‘New and exclusive designer range at Asda’ Asda Opticians, 1 November 2020 ‘New and exclusive designer range at Asda’ Asda Opticians

 

Independent Boutiques and Markets are Brilliant in Cambridge

Amanda Howse
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Independent Boutiques and Markets are Brilliant in Cambridge
Fatface shopping street and University of Cambridge
Fatface shopping street and University of Cambridge

Support the high street and shop local!

Unless firms in the UK have been selling food or pharmaceutical products and other vital supplies this year has been very challenging time indeed commercially, for almost everyone in this “nation of shopkeepers”. In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland all the non-essential retail businesses have experienced a government directed lockdown this Spring.

Several counties across the British Isles and beyond are having to close their doors again this season. This is because of government ordered coronavirus restrictions, aimed at curbing a second wave of infection that could otherwise overwhelm our health services.

As individual customers supporting our town centres across the country is important to providing local jobs. The taxes on the products we buy provide revenue for the local economy which also gives funding to our community services.

You may be lucky enough to be able to take a road trip for a change of scene. Staying in a hotel in Cambridge is recommended. Walking from your accommodation and popping into a few of the independent boutiques on the way to the historic Market Square is a joy. You can read our previous articles on Where To Stay for a Budget Cost Minibreak in Cambridge plus also Cool Places to Go in Cambridge without Breaking the Bank and check out The Best Big Store Shopping in Central Cambridge

Cambridge market square
Cambridge market square

Vintage and second hand shopping is great for those with limited budgets who are looking for an alternative to fast fashion. Conserving the environment and discovering the delights of unexpected treasures along the way is positive too. Therefore we are going to champion seeking out these sustainable havens first. Many charity shops also have their own brands of new items for sale. These ranges are developed ‘in house’ and make kind ‘gifts that make a difference’. Therefore it is worth checking them out for purchasing your next outfit, or getting ahead of the game with stocking up on Christmas cards and supplies.

The Arthur Rank Hospice Shop in Regent Street raises money for a local cause that supports terminally ill people across Cambridgeshire. (1) It is situated next to Cancer Research which is another English charity doing amazing work during a very challenging time. (2)

It is not appropriate for everything to be bought in thrift shops. If you want something personal and new, or there was nothing in your size donated this week, it is time to head for the high street. Many of the most interesting privately owned outlets can be found on the roads leading from the city’s hub.

Cambridge Futon Company shop window display with seating
Cambridge Futon Company shop window display with seating

Established companies such as the Futon Company offer British design and a personal customer service. A chance to view and sit on their products up close in a way that online furniture shopping can never replicate. They also offer delivery throughout the UK and their range is great value with some handsome designs too. “Autumn is officially here and with it comes a whole lot of new kit!” say the small space storage experts at the Futon Company. (3)

If you can afford to “Buy less and buy better” it is an excellent phrase to remember. This mantra was created by Vivienne Westwood Vivienne Westwood who is knowledgable in both fashion and green consumerism. It is the upmarket branded boutiques in Cambridge that can offer something special. The new lifestyle collection at Lilac Rose is full of pretty colours and it is very refreshing to see new premises opening up around the country. Whistles, Superdry, Levis, Hobbs, Monsoon, and Joules are all well worth a visit. There is also a Bang & Olufsen for serious audio enthusiasts.

The general marketplace is where “Stalls have been trading at the historic Market Square in the city centre since the middle ages.” The wide plaza is where brightly coloured stall holders have sold their wares for centuries. The cobble stone paving and array of delicacies and crafted products all carefully displayed by their small business owners gives a wonderful atmosphere to the area. Framed by handsome Gothic, neo-Gothic and classical architecture, this is one big traditional market not to be missed. Buskers playing a wide variety of music accompany the bustling trading event at every corner. This live music adds to the positive experience for shoppers buying merchandise from the local fair. (4)

Cambridge University Gothic Architecture
Cambridge University Gothic architecture

Just off the historic Market Square on Peas Hill is where the Cambridge Fabric Company can be found. This beautiful store sells rolls of interior fabrics by the meter and their sales literature describes their “bespoke made to order service makes curtains, blinds and soft furnishings offering a high quality, hand finished service at affordable prices.” There is a small queue of people patiently waiting to enter the pretty period property.

“We have been really busy since we reopened” said the manageress softly. They specialise in displaying British designs. If you dream about crafting your own home and wearing totally unique garments then the Cambridge Fabric Company run classes throughout the year on several types of fashion dressmaking and home furnishings. (5)

On Sundays there is an arts and crafts market. A short walk north to Trinity Street is where All Saints’ Garden Art and Craft Market can be found on Trinity Street every Saturday and some weekdays too. “Vendors sell organic produce from local farmers and work from some of the region’s most talented artists, craftsmen, potters, sculptors and photographers.” state Cambridge City Council. (4)

A lot of upmarket outfitters are welcoming personal appointments on request where you can effectively book your own showroom with a sales advisor at a convenient time. Fitting rooms are available at Jigsaw and other brands on a minimised basis. Most companies have upgraded their returns policies so you can get a refund if something doesn’t fit or didn’t match your outfit when you returned home to try it out.

Jigsaw is a British owned independent chain of shops that has been on the best high streets since 1970 which means they are celebrating their 50th anniversary. “Creatively, the Autumn Winter 2020 collection is inspired by weekends on the coast; colours of beautiful tidal scenery and prints are reminiscent of eclectic English interiors.” This means you can invest in an unusual print, stylish and warm jumper or a classic piece of Italian suiting that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. (6)

We hope you have an opportunity to browse around this brilliant educational county. We found that everyone on the streets and inside the venues we visited were wearing masks and adhering carefully the the latest guidance on keeping safe to minimise the spread of Covid-19.

Please check out the latest government regulations on travelling around the UK. Cambridgeshire sits in the Tier 1 ‘medium’ alerts level this week but caution should be remembered to be safely spaced when in public buildings as cases in this area continue to rise.

We wish you all happy shopping, keep safe and continue to enjoy supporting our independently owned stores in our high streets nationwide.

 

(1) ‘Supporting You’ Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, 24 October 2020 Arthur Rank Hospice Charity

(2) ‘Together we will beat cancer’ Cancer Research UK, 24 October 2020 Cancer Research Shop

(3) ‘Experts in small space living’ The Futon Company, 24 October 2020 The Futon Company

(4) ‘Markets’ Cambridge City Council, 24 October 2020 ‘Markets’ Cambridge City Council

(5) ‘Workshops’ The Cambridge Fabric Company, 24 October 2020 ‘Workshops’ The Cambridge Fabric Company

(6) ‘Autumn’ Established 1970, Jigsaw, 24 October 2020 ‘Autumn’ Jigsaw shop

The Best Big Store Shopping in Central Cambridge

Amanda Howse
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The Best Big Store Shopping in Central Cambridge

The academic and historical city of Cambridge has a superb selection of ‘anchor’ supermarkets and very well known high street stores. If you are thinking of heading to the beautiful county of Cambridgeshire you may like our previous articles on

Where To Stay for a Budget Cost Minibreak in Cambridge

Cool Places to Go in Cambridge without Breaking the Bank

In England there are the usual signature emporiums that are the ‘go to’ places for buying everything for the home, for work and also enjoying travelling and outdoor life. These vast shops which are packed with variety can be found in the characterful central zone in Cambridge, which is conveniently pedestrianised.

The Grand Arcade on Downing Street is an airy glass centre that includes a John Lewis department store. Head of Branch Dominic Joyce explained that “we’re delighted to have our services available to you again, including The Place to Eat…and Bureau de Change. We’re also really excited about our Christmas shop…” John Lewis have also been leading the way with personal shopping experiences online for those who are shielding or self isolating or just love to do their shopping online. Check out their website for beauty and fashion make-overs with one of their team using web conferencing software such as Zoom. (1)

There is also a Marks and Spencer which has a cafe with their own brand food and tasty coffee, tea and cakes. This M&S has been in Cambridge for many years and has been refurbished several times. A complete department store which includes a food section, Marks and Spencer is a reliable retailer who specialises in the more mature customer although they are known for having quality clothing and underwear for everyone.

Unusually this Marks & Spencer has no toilet or baby changing facilities. Drummer Street public toilets are a few minutes walk away and there are public facilities in the Grand Arcade mall and several coffee shops close by. M&S have a loyalty program which is also an app for mobile phones and a comprehensive website which includes offers, beauty and hampers and flowers for delivery to any doorstep in the UK. (2)

Next is situated in Sidney Street next to M&S and their store services include Menswear, Womenswear, Home as well as a click and collect pickup point. Their ‘Emma Willis’ range contains lots of wearable separates, dresses and jumpsuits in neutral colours. Younger shoppers will opt for their ‘streetstyle’ zone.

A full compliment of smart looks and a selection of casual favourites make Next a top destination especially for working women. The 1980’s business success story continues as Next’s online sales continue to lead the way for the company who reported profits this financial quarter despite the complications of trading through a pandemic. Next also retail men’s suits, formalwear and everyday clothing with more than a dozen designer labels to suit most guy’s tastes. Childrenswear and homewear and lingerie and beauty are also included within the umbrella of Next’s store but only the out of town ‘sheds’ carry all the departments.

A large Waterstones book shop is a real treat that comes with the smart Oxbridge location. Nearby on Sidney Street is Lakeland which is another gem to visit with all sorts of goodies for the home, that can be found in the heart of this town. Lakeland is based in Windermere in the picturesque Lake District and has everything a cook could need in a country kitchen. This British company has brilliant storage, cleaning and laundry sections with products that you often can’t find elsewhere. Their Christmas foodie gift displays cater for gluten free people and look delicious too. (3)

All the premises we visited were enforcing social distancing with ‘traffic’ flows in place and separate entrances and exits as well as installing copious anti-bacterial hand sanitizing stands. TK Maxx offer a ‘posh jumble sale’ experience with the chance of ‘bagging a designer bargain’. The successful warehouse inspired showroom was selling a great selection of cashmere jumpers at about £40 upwards which went straight onto our wish list for the upcoming winter season. They supply almost every type of fashion and home furnishing you might think of including lingerie and accessories. It is worth knowing that TK Maxx also hold a small collection of white cotton and bamboo bedding sets and pillowcases called ‘Cambridge House’ which would make an ideal souvenir from any trip to this destination know for its world famous university. (4)

An impressive and capacious Zara was getting ready for their Fall fashion stock edition which they have entitled ‘High Tension’.

Zara’s ‘High Tension’ assortment is tempting ladies of all ages with a nearly exclusively monochrome group of pieces. The suiting and wool garments will easily vamp up any Autumn wardrobe. Stylish tops are important right now. These hard working blouses and jumpers can be worn for important socially distanced meetings in person. They are also key for appearing effortlessly well presented when making and receiving video calls from the home office.

An extensive men’s collection has something for every chap and a surprisingly large range of ripped jeans for the windy month of October. Zara also do wonderful homeware with informal European style. The Spanish chain’s department just for ‘what to wear at home’ is perfect for keeping cosy and cute, during the long winters nights. (5)

H&M will satisfy any fashion essentials on the list too. Still touting their summer sale they are also selling womens ‘shackets’ or oversized jackets that double as very thick warm shirts. Their ‘must haves’ are very reasonably priced wearable basics that will mix and match well with any capsule wardrobe for the cooler months. Both menswear and ladieswear are on the sporty but casual side of contemporary apparel.

Swedish brand H&M is an ideal place to look if you are a student, home worker, creative or have a retired active lifestyle. “The Fashion Transparency Index by Fashion Revolution evaluates how transparent the 250 largest global brands and retailers are on a range of social and environmental sustainability issues. In 2020, we became the highest scoring brand!” states the H&M website. It is certainly the case that this Scandinavian company’s sustainability credentials are central to its core strategy which is good to know. (6)

Although we are not big Primark fans this enormous brand is popular with students and families on a very tight budget. It is not surprising this department store has done very well despite all the problems faced by corporations this year. Affordable trend lead fashion can be found from wall to wall. Look out for sustainable cotton garments and the Pre-Loved clothing recycle box which is a nice idea and a little better for the planet which is impacted adversely by fast fashion. Primark is amazing and has its place if we all remember to consume responsibly.

We hope you have an opportunity to browse around this brilliant educational county. We found that everyone on the streets and inside the venues we visited were wearing masks and adhering carefully the the latest guidance on keeping safe to minimise the spread of Covid-19.

Please check out the latest government regulations on travelling around the UK. Cambridgeshire sits in the Tier 1 ‘medium’ alerts level today. Caution should be remembered to be safely spaced when in public buildings as cases in this area continue to rise.

At the moment most fitting rooms are closed for the time being but most sales managers are offering full refunds if purchases are unsuitable. We wish you all happy shopping, keep safe and continue to enjoy supporting our High Streets nationwide.

 

(1) ‘John Lewis & Partners, Cambridge’ 23 October 2020 John Lewis and Partners Cambridge

(2) ‘Find your nearest store’ Marks and Spencer, 23 October 2020 Find nearest store, Marks and Spencer

(3) ‘Magic in the making’ Lakeland, 23 October 2020 Lakeland home and cookware

(4) ‘100s of big brand arrivals’ TK Maxx, 23 October 2020 TK Maxx Fashion and home

(5) ‘High Tension: FW20 Womens Campaign’ Zara, 23 October 2020 Zara Fashion store

(6) ‘Let’s be transparent’ H&M, 23 October 2020 H&M sustainability page

(8) Primark Cambridge, Primark, 23 October 2020 Primark Cambridge

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