Reducing Shocking Knife Crime Figures Takes a Multipronged Approach

Amanda Howse
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Reducing Shocking Knife Crime Figures Takes a Multipronged Approach

Whilst members of parliament in Westminster struggle to agree a way ahead in more than two years of Brexit negotiations with Brussels, people in the UK are losing their lives, due to a rise in deadly knife crime. Last year the Office for National Statistics reported that in England and Wales there were “42,957 knife or sharp instrument offences.” (1)

Knives that are being carried and used as weapons on the streets is not a problem that is confined to the crowded metropolis of London. Today a police officer on the east coast of England described the current situation that the force encounters on a daily basis as “a very serious problem that is difficult to control.”

In 2018 there was an “8% increase in the number of police recorded offences involving knives or sharp instruments. There was also “a 15% increase in the number of admissions to hospital in England for assaults involving a sharp instrument.” (1)

Small knives are on sale for purchase for cooking and home improvement purposes at many high street retailers and available to anyone over the age of eighteen. Any blade over 3 inches long is illegal to carry in the UK unless you have a good reason, for example if you are a chef carrying your tools to work.

“The maximum penalty for an adult carrying a knife is 4 years in prison and an unlimited fine. You’ll get a prison sentence if you’re convicted of carrying a knife more than once.” (2) the official UK government website states clearly.

The causes of knife crime in society are complex and the result of many different factors creating a ‘perfect storm’. Regional gangs of men and women can compete for being in control of their territory and then knife related violence can erupt as a result.

When organised gangs deal drugs in specific areas it can create a situation where young people (who cannot be prosecuted and imprisoned as severely as adults can) are drawn into the conflict inadvertently. These youngsters can be used to deliver drugs to more rural areas they do not previously have any connection with in order to fulfil drug dealers sales objectives. “Thousands of children used as drug mules by ‘county lines’ gangs..” reports The Independent. (3)

People living in areas where there has been violence on the streets previously, may be tempted to carry a knife in order to protect themselves if they are mugged or attacked unexpectedly. This creates a ‘vicious circle’ scenario. Disagreements between locals that in previous generations would have often been settled with angry words and then both parties might walk away or possibly there could have been a punch thrown or bit of hand fighting. Now bitter exchanges can escalate into life threateningly aggressive situations within just seconds.

There is more pressure on young people than ever before to live up to and maintain their ‘tough urban image’ which is increasingly more important to them because of the part social media plays in their lives. Sites like facebook, twitter and instagram mean mobile phone footage of any arguments can be videoed and streamed in ‘real time’ tempting some citizens to behave like they are the gangsters in a movie.

Lack of police officers on the streets is blamed for creating a culture where some people fear they will have to protect themselves when they are out walking along in their neighbourhoods where they do not always feel safe. Some members of the public think they will be able to get away with breaking the law as there is nobody around to stop them.

“Cuts of about 20 per cent in police budgets have led to a loss of nearly 20,000 officers across the country in the past seven years.”

There has also been a big reduction in council funding for services like youth clubs due to the economic budgets of austerity since 2008. Mental health services are widely reported as a postcode lottery. Police forces and health professionals with cash strapped NHS resources are often left to pick up the pieces when individuals loose their way in life and get caught up in a violent lifestyle.

Improving access and funding for technical, further and higher education and sports programmes are key to diverting future problems and preventing folk breaking the law. Keeping those in the community who are vulnerable away from harmful influences and criminals is vital to stem the flow of kids growing up and getting involved with a badly behaved and dangerous groups.

Gary Young a specialist on youth crime in England writing for the Guardian sites describes “a series of social challenges beyond the crime itself: mental health, school exclusions, poverty or unemployment that make the susceptibility to violence – either as a victim or a perpetrator – more likely. By the time the criminal justice system intervenes, it is really adjudicating a crisis that has been created elsewhere.”

Broad brush strategic politics is at the forefront of our minds at this crossroads in our countries history. We must also continue to take a holistic approach to creating a society that encourages healthy living and positive behaviour for everyone. We urgently require extra funding for more police in towns to produce an environment where we all feel safe in the place we live. Whatever their background the younger generation all need to be connected to training schemes to develop their skills and hopes of a bright future in employment.

(1) ‘Crime in England and Wales: year ending September 2018’ Office for National Statistics Meghan Elkin 24 Jan 2019 https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/crimeinenglandandwales/yearendingseptember2018

(2) ‘Selling, buying, carrying knives’ Gov.uk official UK government website 29 Jan 2019 https://www.gov.uk/buying-carrying-knives

(3)’Thousands of children used as drug mules by ‘county lines’ gangs expanding into rural parts of UK.” Lizzie Dearden, Home Affairs Correspondent, The Independent 28 Nov 2017 https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/children-drug-mules-uk-thousands-county-lines-gangs-vulnerable-expanding-rural-britain-seaside-a8080001.html

(4)’Why England is facing a rising tide of knife crime’ Helen Warrell, Public Policy Correspondent The Financial Times, 20 Nov 2018 https://www.ft.com/content/0a4166b8-e8ef-11e8-a34c-663b3f553b35

(5) ‘The radical lessons of a year reporting on knife crime’ Gary Younge, The Guardian, 21 Jun 2018 https://www.theguardian.com/membership/2018/jun/21/radical-lessons-knife-crime-beyond-the-blade

 

 

 

Surrey’s Hidden Gem is Haslemere Educational Museum

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Surrey’s Hidden Gem is Haslemere Educational Museum

Haslemere is a wonderful old market town in the borough of Waverley in the south of the county of Surrey in England. People who live in the this upmarket area benefit from beautiful wooded hills and countryside aptly named Blackdown. Haslemere railway station links the residents conveniently to London Waterloo in around 50 minutes. The A3 motorway provides local motorists with easy access to London to the north and Portsmouth and the coast to the south.

This small but perfectly formed village boasts a theatre called Haslemere Hall which also shows films. “The White Horse and The Swan Inn are the two public houses along the main street.” advises Wikepedia. There is a Waitrose and also a Morrisons supermarket and a selection of independent gift shops and boutiques which definitely add to the charm of this thriving district. There is also an excellent selection of cafes and a ASK Italian restaurant.

Every year a large Christmas tree and lights decorate the central space that used to be a cattle market. The churches and some of the buildings date back to the 12th century. There is a Georgian hotel in the high street and every year a music festival is held which attracts visitors of all ages.

Haslemere Educational Museum is a local treasure trove with a combination of galleries and exhibition spaces. The museum tells the story of human geology accompanied by rare and exotic animals and fossils. There is a display of European folk art and an area devoted to Egyptian history. The contemporary gallery features a diverse selection of local artists and several special exhibitions are held throughout the year.

The Lecture Hall and Education Room provide the venue for group visits and seasonal events and craft activities. The recent children’s festive art session was very successful and enthusiastically received by all the young people attending.

The Museum’s children’s event for meeting Father Christmas was magical. Father Christmas obviously felt very comfortable sitting next to the fireplace in the beautifully decorated Victorian sitting room as he was spoke to the children individually for quite at least 5 minutes and then gave them all a special wrapped present.

Situated at the top north east part of Haslemere town centre at number 78 High Street is the monumental Georgian facade and the grand entrance to the museum. The amenity is open from Tuesday to Saturday every week and is open all year from 10 until 4:30pm every day apart from Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Good Friday.

Volunteers are the key to the success of this community hub and they have been helping to develop and run the institution “for more than a century.” to quote their promotional leaflet. In addition to the interactive exhibits, workshops and performances that take place there is also a Visitor Information Centre and grounds that can be enjoyed by the public. A Tree Trail and short woodland walk includes a pond and there is a herb garden to discover. The Annex is a place to relax with hot drinks available and there is a shop stocked with seasonal gifts and greetings cards.

Haslemere is a super place to visit for a day out with family and friends. It is also an ideal stopping place as part of a walking tour of Surrey and exploring further south to West Sussex and the South Downs Way.

Official Haslemere Museum website  http://www.haslemeremuseum.co.uk/

20190125 ‘Haslemere’ Wikepedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haslemere

Christmas Countdown Continues As Stores Face Low Sales on High Street

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Christmas Countdown Continues As Stores Face Low Sales on High Street

In the UK retailing industry a large percentage of all sales throughout the year take place during November and December. This festive time of year is key for all the town centre shops to survive and be a success. Yesterday two assistants at The Body Shop in Chichester agreed that “sales have been very slow, for the run up to Christmas.”

In the historic market city of Chichester the Christmas market is all set up but stall holders won’t be selling out anytime soon. November and the first couple of weeks of December were not the festive shopping frenzy often seen in previous years. The only department store in Chichester House of Fraser is set to close in January and they have already started condensing the sales floor on the top floor as they slowly sell out and will not be expecting any deliveries to replenish their stock.

This week online retailer Asos “Shares plunged by nearly 38% following the (trading) update while rival fashion retailers also took a hit, with Marks & Spencer and Next each closing nearly 5% lower.” reported Sky News. (1)

Finally there was a long queue in Marks and Spencer at lunchtime on Friday the 14th December as some people had been paid their December wages and were heading to buy a few gifts from the famous British chain. However this won’t be any consolation for those who were working in the many now closed Marks and Spencer stores across the country.

Falling fuel prices and a rise in average wages should have boosted sales in the weeks before the holidays. The Office for National Statistics stated that compared to the previous year a “13.1% year on year growth in sales in November across ‘all retailing’” This includes the sales rise of “11% seen in electrical household appliances.” (2)

“In November online sales as a proportion of all retailing exceeded 20% for the first time.” stated the Office for National Statistics. (3) This explains how High Street trading feels slow and yet actual spending had risen slightly on last year. Black Friday deals were publicised on the internet earlier in November than ever before, as businesses compete for customers who are keen to secure the best online deals.

“I like to pick up presents from the shops a few months before Christmas, as I go along.” said one lady who is a nurse at the St Richards hospital in West Sussex.

One recent trend is for most of the retail sales to be more spread out between the months of November and December, compared to a decade ago when sales rose according to how close to the Christian winter holiday the date became. This change can be explained by the adoption of the American Thanksgiving shopping tradition of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These extra events are now influencing consumer spending behaviour in the UK.

However consumer confidence still remains low as the uncertainty of Brexit means many families are tightening their purses and are worried about being able to afford the basics in the future like heating and food. For those that have held on in the hope for bargains and have yet to hit the shops, there is still time for a last minute rush. Many popular brands like Clarks, Phase Eight and Go Outdoors have started reducing prices by 50 percent or more this week several days ahead of the January sales. This is in an effort to simultaneously attract precious customers through their online and actual front doors.

(1) ‘ASOS becomes latest retailer to warn on Christmas sales’ James Sillars, business reporter, Sky News, 17 Dec 2018      https://news.sky.com/story/asos-is-latest-retailer-to-warn-on-xmas-sales-11583820

(2) ‘Retail sales, Great Britain: November 2018’ Office for National Statistics, Rhian Murphy 20 December 2018    https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/retailindustry/bulletins/retailsales/november2018

(3)’Falling fuel prices help boost pre-Christmas spending power’ James Sillars, business reporter, Sky News, 19 Dec 2018 https://news.sky.com/story/falling-fuel-prices-help-boost-pre-christmas-spending-power-11585738

 

 

Harrow’s Christmas Party is Sparkling Success

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Harrow’s Christmas Party is Sparkling Success

On the 24th of November the London borough of Harrow in north-west London celebrated the beginning of the festive season with a free party for everyone in the town centre from 12 to 6 pm.

This event wasn’t just about the switching on of a massive Christmas tree’s illuminations as most towns and cities do at this time of year with the help of a local celebrity or two. Harrow council ‘pushed the boat out’ to include a sizeable outdoor stage located by The Royal Oak that featured a Rock Choir and a booming ‘Stomp’ style band called the Dhol Drummers.

Fairground ride style amusements for young people were installed along the high street. A lovely bright Santas grotto stall invited each child to receive a greeting and a present from Santa and Mary Christmas. There were cheeky elves, costumed characters, face painting and Bad Rapping Santa’s and some fake snow to amuse children of all ages.

The Christmas tree lights were switched on by the management of St George’s Shopping Centre at 5pm where a large and jolly crowd had gathered.

Many shoppers enjoyed roasted chestnuts and buying seasonal merchandise in the Christmas fair stalls that lined the central pedestrianised area. There were so many people in the square enjoying the musical entertainment that it was nearly impossible to enter the covered mall at the end of the high street.

A policemen who was on duty at the event was relaxed and cheerful and said that Harrow was “on the whole a good place to live and was a relatively well off area without too many major problems.”

The finale was a good five minutes worth of fireworks which created one of the best local displays anyone could remember, filling the cold winters night sky with colourful bursts, fizzing rockets and hundreds of metallic stars.

The council allocated precious resources to host the celebration to ensure that as many folk as possible visit the commercial heart of the district. They are keen for those living in Harrow to boost the local economy by buying their presents and spending their leisure money at the towns wide selection of local businesses, instead of travelling into London’s West End or any of the other new retail centres a short drive away.

It was not easy to tell if the shops had benefited from the event itself as most people were enjoying the activities outdoors although the coffee shops were doing a brisk trade in hot drinks as the temperature struggled to keep above zero.

A multiculturally diverse community means that there are several restaurants offering cuisine from around the world in Harrow. Khatoon on Station Road  is a good example and is a Persian restaurant that was full of diners enjoying dinner, after a successfully festive afternoon and an impressive and atmospheric display of lights.

What Shop Is Top of the TV Christmas Ad Tree? We Review the UK’s 5 Best

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What Shop Is Top of the TV Christmas Ad Tree? We Review the UK’s 5 Best

Diamond Prize Number 1 goes to John Lewis

Every year the biggest retailers battle it out on ITV, Channel 4 and all the satellite channels that show advertising to deliver a winning piece of festive entertainment. Traditionally these mini films transport us to a spiritual place when we all sang carols and everyone was excited to hang up our stockings for Santa.

A classic advert is the Coca-cola sleigh bringing sparkling bottles of sweetness to the world. These magnificent marketing masterpieces inspire us to head for the high street and max out our plastic in order cater for everything you might want over the holiday season whilst positively ‘living the dream’.

This years outstanding achievement award goes to the John Lewis Partnership for their ‘The Boy and The Piano’. A nostaligic Elton John sits at his old piano and remembers, looking back at his career through the decades. It tells a story of how a gift can be transformative to the tune of Elton’s popular hit ‘Your Song’. The way the different scenes flow is brilliant and the scenes of Elton performing on stage at various ages and settings is perfectly executed and we feel we are right there with him. The combination of a British genius musician, a retro flashback in time and a child given his first musical instrument on Christmas Day by his family just totally hits the spot.

The message that a quality gift is an investment that can last a lifetime is perfect for boosting John Lewis sales. This advert also reminds us that lift is short and we have to live our dreams which is also another good note for this upmarket lifestyle store. A budget of millions well spent…at least the company’s partners can see where the budget for this years partnership bonus went!

Gold Prize Number 2 goes to Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s brings us another advert that evokes magical childhood memories by presenting a special version of an British school Christmas play. A cute little girl dressed as a star struggles to sing on her own a version of the well known contemporary pop song “we only get what we give” by New Radicals. Then she finds her confidence and gives it her all singing “Don’t give up…you got the music in you” accompanied by her school friends who are in fancy dress representing everything good about Christmas in the UK. The solo star flies up to the top of the tree on this festive school stage and the slogan is “we give everything for the ones we love.” This advert celebrated love and encouragement and ‘pulling out all the stops’ at Christmas.

This musical piece of marketing will appeal to families with children and anyone who remembers their own school play. It is a super little heart warming film which is relatively simple but effective. It is perceptive to focus on giving confidence by going to Sainsbury’s as many are feeling insecure about shopping at this time of political upheaval throughout Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

We have all had a moment on stage where we needed a boost to get in the swing of things. This year it is especially, we all need a hand boosting our festive mood.

Of course in this country we always have something to moan about and this advert has sparked furious controversy by dozens of people who complained to the Advertising Standards Agency about the traditional retailer featuring a ‘plug boy’. The young man aged 8 is wearing a plug costume and runs into the socket to activate the lights on the tree. This incensed both anxious parents and health and safety experts who unsurprisingly do not recommend that kids play with electric sockets.

Frankincense Prize Number 3 goes to Boots

Boots was one of the first festive adverts to come bouncing onto our screens this year. This offering tells a story of a tense mother and teenage daughter relationship that will strike an emotional chord with many Mums and young ladies who have been told to ‘go upstairs and wipe that make-up off’. The musical Mummy surprises her wayward offspring by wearing her bright red Christmas lipstick matching all the other ladies who are making a special effort and singing carols in the community choir. The Mother is then very touched to receive a present of a new cranberry coloured lippy underneath the tree from the thankful youngster, who shows her love and appreciation with this small but thoughtful gift.

The message that thanks Mums for everything they do will appeal to ladies who shop at the British pharmacy and the slogan ‘gifts to say you get them’ is clever by encouraging the idea that a personal but not necessarily big present is appropriate to buy for loved ones this year. It’s the best Boots advert yet, although it does leave the boys and the men out in the cold this season.

Myrrh Prize Number 4 goes to Marks and Spencer

The Marks & Spencer’s advert is a kaleidoscope of sparkling fun and fashion. Celebrity Holly Willoughby is living in her smart West London house and leading the way like the princess on top of the tree. Top male model David Gandy and Holly’s mostly female friends are having a jolly time in Christmas jumpers or all ready to party in the latest seasons garments from the historic department store.

Appealing to its core customer base of over 30 something aged women, this advert features fancy knickers and big pants from the winter classic Bridget Jones film, some amusing seething gift envy and a funny twist ending with Holly telling her fairy Godmother she got her posh amethyst wool coat from M&S.

The key messages are about the ‘must haves that make Christmas’ and ‘give a little love’ sung by the unmissable voice of Tom Jones. This mini film is spicy romp and is very entertaining. However its mixed bag approach feels slightly disjointed in places, as if different teams of people ‘put it all together at the end.’

Silver Prize Number 5 goes to Aldi

Aldi’s Christmas TV advert with Kevin the Carrot and the wicked Parsnip is a poetic children’s tale. It is about the grocery chains animated mascot and hero Kevin flying across a medieval castle’s feasting table being chased by a evil old parsnip character. The Daddy carrot flies through the air and saving his little veggies he athletically jumps through the window and lands in Santa’s sleigh. This computer generated promotional segment is part of a series of escapades where Kevin the Carrot has many adventures.

The latest quick advert is a sparkling Coca-cola sleigh inspired Aldi truck on ice, that slides off the mountain side in a clever ‘cliff hanger’. There are many mini videos in the virtual book of Aldi’s winter stories. In fact the healthy hero has become so popular, that there were several heated till point tousles by parents on a mission to purchase the Kevin the Carrot toys for their young ones, when they hit the shops earlier this month. It has also been reported that the large soft toy version has been changing hands on ebay for £500. It is certain that Aldi will be very proud of the runaway success of their tasty campaign this year.

‘John Lewis & Partners Christmas Ad 2018’ John Lewis & Partners 14 Nov 2018

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNbSgMEZ_Tw

‘The Big Night, Sainsbury’s Ad Christmas 2018’ Sainsbury’s, 11 Nov 2018

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvXBbsRU83Q

‘Boots Christmas TV Advert 2018, Gifts That Get Them’ You Tube, Boots, 8 Nov 2018

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z6KIlJaACw

‘Holly Willoughby leads Marks & Spencer’s new Christmas advert on the must-haves for the festive season’ Olivia Heath, House Beautiful, 13 Nov 2018

https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/lifestyle/a25043967/marks-spencer-christmas-advert/

‘Aldi Christmas TV Advert 2018 – Kevin the Carrot and the Wicked Parsnip’ Aldi UK on You Tube 7 Nov 2018

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=69Cg_ez7d1U

FatFace Celebrates 10 Years of Fundraising with Discounted Fashion Shop

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FatFace Celebrates 10 Years of Fundraising with Discounted Fashion Shop

The Fatface Head Office is based in Havant near Portsmouth on the south coast of England. The active lifestyle brand was started by entrepreneurs Jules Leaver and Tim Slade in 1988 by simply selling T-shirts in busy French ski resorts. (1)

Four weeks ago a special new shop opened in the Meridian Centre at 21 North Street in the heart of the town of Havant. The fashion chain is known for its soft colour palette and good quality leisure wear for men, women and children. Selling unworn outlet stock at discounted prices is a winning formula in this area of the south east where most peoples wages are relatively low and the housing costs are so high they can be out of reach for many local residents.

The building is on the corner of the 1980’s shopping centre with a brick facade. The fresh look white frontage of this new venture features the Fatface logo with a green heart made out of fingerprints. This represents how the values of the people that work for the organisation include an emphasis on ‘treading lightly on the planet’ in terms of each individuals environmental impact.

Two large windows frame a glass from door which showcases the denim, leather, wool and cotton textiles within. Two further large glass sections flood light into the wide cream painted interior, highlighting all the brightly coloured stock neatly hung on the many rails and free standing units.

Apart from unusual signage the boutique looks and feels like any other branded outlet from this British business that floated on the stock exchange a few years ago. FatFace is now led by well known business leaders previously of Asda and Marks and Spencer acclaim.

“We’re really excited to tell you about our FatFace Foundation shop… the first ever retail foundation shop (we think)!” proclaims the official website.(2)

All the profits from this venture go to local charities and local community projects. As Portsmouth and Havant have several areas of poverty and need, there are many who will appreciate support from Fatface. The company’s regular target customers are more likely to be able to afford skiing holidays and travelling adventure trips on a regular basis than the average Havant shopper.

The sales assistance are friendly and helpful and upbeat about the stores opening success.

“The shop is going really well so far. I have been over to the warehouse today” says the pretty blonde Manageress happy to chat about the slightly random nature of the collection. “I have picked all the best gilets but I will be looking out for some more small sizes.”

The new store was packed full of customers on Saturday but a little quieter during the week. There are two dressing rooms so it would be advisable to pick a quieter time of day in order to avoid a wait to try items on.

“We can exchange but not refund.” says another sales assistant politely.

Fatface Foundation charities include hospices, children’s trusts, air ambulance services, animal santuaries, guide dog and life boat charities. “Since 2016 we’ve been working in partnership with Hampshire Cricket in the Community and local schools in Hampshire” states the official website. (2) A partnership with the Prince’s Trust working on programmes that support young people who need some extra help to become employed has also become an ongoing involvement for the organisation.

Havant certainly needs the help from community minded retailers and local manufacturing businesses. Child poverty is a reality for too many families in Portsmouth and Havant even in 2018. The Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) are produced by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and provide information on deprivation on a range of economic, social and housing issues. In 2015, the Borough had 18 areas within the 20% most deprived areas in England; of these, 6 were in the 10% most deprived. (3)

2019 marks 10 years since the Fatface foundation was formed. In that time they have raised over £1 million pounds to date for worthy causes. We wish their new venture well and look forward to FatFace being a permanent part of central Havant. In these challenging economic times Havant needs all the quality shops it can get, in order to create and maintain a thriving commercial district, in addition to its regular street market. This will help the town to continue to succeed and be a pleasant place to work and relax, that is worthy of its Roman town history, which developed around the 11th century church of St Faiths.

(1) Wikepedia, FatFace

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fat_Face

(2)Fatface Foundation website, 15 Nov 2018

https://www.fatfacefoundation.org/our-shop.php

(3)Havant Borough Profile & Local Plan 2036, Havant Borough Council Jan 2018

https://www.havant.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/Havant%20Borough%20Profile.pdf

Communities Unite to Commemorate and Remember on Armistice Day

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Communities Unite to Commemorate and Remember on Armistice Day

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of November 2018 people across Europe, America and beyond stood in silence together. They took this time to to reflect and remember those who gave their lives in sacrifice during the First World War and in other wars that have been fought since.

This year was particularly special as it marks 100 years since peace was declared. A televised festival at the Royal Albert Hall included music and performances by Sir Tom Jones, Sir Bryn Terfel and The Kingdom Choir and other well known musicians was particularly moving and attended by the royal family.

This Sunday in every village and community throughout the British Isles and across the continent citizens came together to hold services, lay wreathes and pay their respects at war memorials throughout the land.

Many town centres have been decorated with handmade poppies and volunteers have banded together to create amazing displays to highlight this special day. In Chichester Alex at Closs & Hamblin fabrics said “we were totally amazed to find that our customers and friends had made 4400 crochet poppies in response to our ‘Big Poppy 2018’ call for crafting so we could assemble our special Remembrance Day themed window display.”

In Lee-on-the-Solent the florists shop presented an elaborate vintage frontage with flowers, soldiers silhouettes and flags. In other parishes like Bosham in West Sussex a simple row of crosses and red wreaths demonstrated the formal respects that were paid by the parishioners at their war local memorial, as part of a dedicated Sunday service.

There were official events in all of the major cities including London where the Prime Minister Theresa May and Prince Charles laid a wreath at the Cenotaph, closely watched by the Queen. Shortly afterwards 10000 citizens from all walks of life took part in the People’s Procession which paraded through the historic city streets. Hundreds amongst them were ceremoniously representing family members from previous generations that had fought in the two world wars.

The BBC said of the People’s Parade that “Today, the mood of jubilation has been replaced with a quiet pride and an awe at what our ancestors sacrificed for our freedom.”

Along the length of the south coast Royal Navy, Marines, Army and Air Force members wore their uniforms and handed out poppies whilst softly playing appropriate military anthems and songs that celebrate peacetime.

At a time of political division within the UK and also in the United States, a moment to reflect on ones history and values was an important and timely one for many taking part. The First World War has been on the curriculum for thousands of schools nationwide this year. This educational knowledge has generated an interest and awareness of preventing war and aspiring to maintain peace that will hopefully stay with the next generation as they mature. This will also ensure that Armistice Day and all those who made sacrifices to ensure a lasting peace are remembered, over the next hundred year to come.

‘Remembrance Day: Pride and awe at the People’s Procession’ Marie Jackson, BBC News, 11 Nov 2018

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46172641

Closs & Hamblin Fabrics & Haberdashery shop Chichester, West Sussex

https://www.candh.co.uk/

Are bargain stores dominating the retail market?

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Are bargain stores dominating the retail market?

In more than two hundred towns and cities across the UK the low cost fashion retailer Primark has opened vast outlets of a size that would rival any traditional department store. This Autumn Primark “has announced an 8% increase in sales year on year and a 6% jump in adjusted operating profit to £341m” (1)

Good value home store B&M stores “posted a 25 per cent growth in pre-tax profit for the year” (2) Other shops known for their competitive prices such as Matalan have also reported strong sales this year. Offering fashionable ranges that are exactly what families want to buy this week is really important for selling in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Cheap and cheerful stores like The Range and Wilko have been popping up on the edges of city centres and in out of town sheds with thousands of product lines to rival any conventional emporium. Many of these giant bargain boutiques sell homeware, gifts, decorating, hardware, food ranges and some also have their own brand cafes.

InsightDIY news described how this year The Range “trades from 145 stores the length and breadth of the country. Turnover at The Range, the discount retailer owned and run by (self made) billionaire Chris Dawson increased to over £760m.”(3)

There is also a growing trend for busy consumers to be tempted to spend some of their household budget on inexpensive fashion items that are available in supermarkets. “The value apparel market was worth nearly £10 billion in 2016” (4) All the biggest food retailers have ‘own brand’ textile collections. It is possible to find some excellent quality and nicely made pieces on sale in colourful collections that are suitable for all the family.

Supermarket clothing departments have assistants to help and fitting rooms and these major chains even sell underwear and lingerie. The growing trend for clothes shopping in supermarkets has had a direct impact on the fortunes of department stores like BHS, Marks and Spencer and Debenhams.

Reasonably priced dedicated fashion retailers Next, H&M and New Look have all had a very challenging year competing for precious sales in a time that has seen a low number of visitors or ‘footfall’ in the high street.

The recent shake up of retail in the the UK is compounded as Sainsbury’s announcement recently that it is teaming up with its old rivals Asda. This is a bid to outwit Tescos, Morissons and the successful European no frills food markets Aldi and Lidl whose basic cash and carry approach has won over customers even in exclusive towns like Sevenoaks in Kent.

Oasis is known as a mid priced women’s fashion boutique with trendy designs. Oasis is opening up as a franchise feature in Sainsbury’s this year, alongside Argos and possibly other high street names in the pipeline. Oasis can capitalise on longer opening hours and all the ‘impulse purchases’ that catch the eye of the passing trade that flows through Sainsbury’s on the quest for supper.(5) Incorporating Oasis within their retail space will mean Sainsbury’s will benefit from being able to lure more fickle grocery customers to their location.

However it is not all smiles amongst the new wave of more price competitive often out of town stores. Established value homeware business Wilko “posted a pre-tax operating loss of £65 million in the 12 months to February 3” this year. (6) Wilko’s management have been working hard to define a positive future and stated they “opened 16 stores” and also invested in updating their website this year. Wilko’s sales rose slightly this year across the country and so the leadership team have reason to be cautiously optimistic.

Price is a key factor affecting purchasing decisions of the technically confident online generations living in an time of austerity. The online marketplace is key and millions of fickle customers can easily hop from their favourite branded web stores to find bargains at the online supermarkets like Ebay and Amazon.

An online business like Ebay and Amazon does not pay for fancy premises or council rates in the same way as a high street brand. This means they are able to drive price points down and still make a profit. Keen to promote a tiny slice of the vast supply of products available from Amazon, the technically focused American company opened their own ‘pop up shop’ on London’s famous Baker Street this month.(7)

Bargain stores are here to stay and have significantly picked up market share. They have been adept at filling the gaps left by long established businesses closing or moving into comparatively low cost commercial estates. They have taken advantage of department stores that have suffered from underinvestment and an old fashioned format. Bargain stores are in a good position to continue to win thrifty online customers and compete with the online giants for sales.

Both expensive and low priced smaller shops will be boosted by the Chanceller Philip Hammond’s announcement yesterday that “business rates bill for firms with a rateable value of £51,000 or less (are) to be cut by (a) third over two years.” (8) The Chancellor also pledged £650 million to rejuvenate high streets and this will improve the transport links and the general town centre environment which will help all shops in central locations attract and retain customers.

As the retail industry adapts and progresses, the bargain basement warehouses are all set to innovate, blend and evolve further with grocery stores, garden centres, exhibitions and transport stations. In the 21st century bargain stores are primed to become more digitally advanced and chameleon like versions of the historic department stores that precede them.

 

(1)’Primark profits rise despite like-for-like sales drop’ Kaisha Langton Drapers Online 17 Apr 2018 https://www.drapersonline.com/news/primark-profits-rise-despite-like-for-like-sales-drop/7029960.article

(2)’B&M unveils 25% surge in full-year profits’ Ava Szajna-Hopgood, Retail Gazette, 30 May 2018

https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2018/05/bm-unveils-25-surge-fy-profits/

(3)’The Range turnover tops £760m as profits grow’ Insight DIY 29 October 2018 http://www.insightdiy.co.uk/news/the-range-turnover-tops-760m-as-profits-grow/5964.htm

(4) ‘UK Value Clothing Market’ Deborah Weinswig, Fung Global Retail & Technology Report 3 Apr 2017 https://www.fungglobalretailtech.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/UK-Value-Clothing-Retailers-April-3_2017-DF.pdf

(5)’Sainsbury’s to open Oasis clothes outlets in supermarkets’ BBC News 25 Oct 2018 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-45977660

(6)’Wilko posts £65m Loss’ Ava Szajna-Hopgood Retail Gazette 29 October 2018 https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2018/10/wilko-posts-65m-loss/

(7)’Why Now Was The Right Time For Amazon Fashion To Launch Its First UK Pop-Up Shop’ Alice Newbold, Vogue, 23 Oct 2018 https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/amazon-fashion-pop-up-shop-london

(8)’Summary of Budget 2018:Key points at-a-glance BBC News 29 October 2018 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-46017125

 

 

 

Is it the ‘End of an Era’ for our UK department stores?

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Is it the ‘End of an Era’ for our UK department stores?

Yesterday Debenhams announced that their retail business had “lost 491.5 million against profits of £59 million” and “plans to close up to 50 stores.” This Winter “31 out of 59” branches of House of Fraser department stores are closing across the UK. (1)

In West Sussex many local people are very disappointed that the ‘Army & Navy’ store in Chichester will close on the 27th of January 2019. This historic building in West Street was originally a school in the 18th century. The voluminous ‘Army & Navy’ building now owned by House of Fraser then became a cornerstone part of this upmarket commercial high street and has been situated opposite Chichester cathedral since 1941. The ‘Army & Navy’ store became the replacement premises for a well known store of the same name in Southsea, Portsmouth that was destroyed by German bombing during the second world war.

On the 10th August 2018 Sports Direct owner Mike Ashley bought all House of Fraser assets, stock and brand for 90 million pounds after the struggling retailer went into administration earlier this year. (2)

The Office for National Statistics stated that in 2017 “The amount of money spent in the retail industry (excluding fuel) increased by 4.7% to approximately £366 billion in 2017, when compared with the previous year.” (3) However it has been reported in 2018 that “High street spending fell at its fastest annual rate in six years and footfall tumbled in April.” (4)

We know how well known big chains can disappear quickly causing thousands of job losses. British Home Stores failed to stay afloat a few years ago and all their shops are long gone. Marks and Spencer has closed 21 stores and plans to shut more than 100 stores by 2022 to try to maintain their profitability. These closures create ‘front teeth’ sized gaps in the smile of many high streets.(5)

All UK retailers have had to deal with the detrimental effect of a weak pound. This makes the cost of imported stock significantly more expensive and directly impacts on profit margins. The costs of running these large stores, that are often set over several floors has increased, with a rise in the national minimum wage.

Property prices are continuing to command top figures, especially in the south of the UK, so land owners are expecting higher rents than ever. Even those companies who own many stores outright such as Marks & Spencer, have chosen to close poorer performing shops that cannot afford the commercial council tax rates, electricity and staff costs to make their venture worthwhile financially.

Internet shopping has transformed the retail landscape dramatically. “Throughout 2018 we had record proportions for online spending, increasing to 18.2% in August.” explains the Office for National Statistics. This means that “bricks and mortar sales still account for nearly 82% of sales.” (3) So we can assume that a strong online presence is vital for the future of any retailer as the percentage spend on purchases online grows year on year. However 4 in 5 sales are still made in person shopping in the traditional way.

A recent report by Deloitte found that “Millenials hear messages from multiple channels simultaneously.” (6) This means this important customer group of working age that was born between 1981 and 1996 pickup marketing information from a diverse range of sources. Their inspiration comes from advertising, magazines and social media websites before even entering an outlet that they are likely to purchase from.

Retail experts also comment that, for those that can afford it, there is a trend in buying less and buying better quality. Keeping clothes and other items like bags and shoes for longer and looking after them well is a strategy some employ that extends to gadgets and computing equipment. Investing in good quality furniture and textiles is a luxury that makes good sense to those who have the ability to collect fine things.

Exclusive stores in cities like London have some of the most famous department stores in the world.  Harrods and Selfridges are doing very well indeed and are buoyed along by their international visitors. It is the ‘middle market’ retailers who are finding themselves left in the cold. Their stock is not designer, feel good, luxury treat type of items for people to purchase and it is not cheap or the height of fashion either. Many old fashioned shops across the country have an empty and deflated atmosphere, especially during the week.

The average person is now more concerned about the environment and conserving energy than ever. There is no stigma to wearing second hand threads and repairing and customising clothing is positively de rigueur. There is a vogue for ‘capsule wardrobes’ that fit neatly into smaller bedrooms and carry on suitcases and also a move away from the branded flashiness of the 1980’s. This all does nothing to help turnover at the traditional department store. Suiting used to be a key area for these smart shops but business wear is more likely to be ‘smart casual’ than ever.

There is a lot of change in the market for the traditional department store to deal with simultaneously. External factors are challenging and this is a politically and economically unsettling time for Great Britain and Northern Island as we move towards an uncertain Brexit. In order to survive and retain the loyalty of customers stores will need to offer a special and unique in store experience.

Department stores need to offer more social, fresh and relaxing spaces that cater for leisurely dining, exercising and discovering the latest looks and ways to wear them. These activities should be fully synchronised with their interiors, virtual presence and a unique and positive brand identity. Branded store apps that welcome consumers on their smartphones as they are near their location are now popular. They currently reward their patrons with the latest offers and promotions as they browse in the vicinity.

Soon holographic assistants will be commonplace in both the physical and online webstore locations as they help us select the perfect pieces for our age, figure, colouring and lifestyle. In the United Kingdom the old saying goes that we are a nation of shopkeepers. In the future it is likely we will become known as a nation of savvy and stylish online shoppers, keen to engage with eachother whenever and wherever we feel like it as the experience becomes as important as the product.

 

(1)’House of Fraser: The Full List of Stores Due To Close’ Sabrina Barr, The Independant, 10 Aug 2018 https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/house-of-fraser-closing-down-sales-store-closures-list-full-uk-a8411301.html

(2)’Acquisition of House of Fraser by Sports Direct’ OTP Investis website 10 August 2018 http://otp.investis.com/clients/uk/sports_direct1/rns/regulatory-story.aspx?cid=723&newsid=1142693

(3)’Comparing “bricks and mortar” store sales with online retail sales: August 2018′ Rhian Murphy, Office for National Statistics, 20 Sep 2018 https://www.ons.gov.uk/businessindustryandtrade/retailindustry/articles/comparingbricksandmortarstoresalestoonlineretailsales/august2018

(4)’High street spending drops at fastest pace in six years as retail gloom worsens’ C Chapman, The Independent, 14 may 2018 https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/high-street-spending-falls-fastest-six-years-retail-sector-visa-research-a8349526.html

(5) ‘Marks and Spencer closures – which M&S stores are closing and how many job losses will there be?’ Tara Evans, The Sun, 14 Aug 2018 https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/5465250/marks-and-spencer-closures-stores-list-jobs/

(6) ‘What Makes a Millennial Spend More?’ Deloitte report https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/uk/Documents/consumer-business/deloitte-uk-young-luxury-shopper-2017.pdf

Cure Your Incurable Skin Disease with Dr Pagano’s Detox Plan

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Cure Your Incurable Skin Disease with Dr Pagano’s Detox Plan

Psoriasis is a disease that can affect men, women and children at any age and it is the most prevalent autoimmune disease. “Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin covered with silvery scales.” (1) This is the definition of a condition which can cause discomfort, pain and emotional distress to those afflicted.

People living with psoriasis can have mild, moderate or severe psoriasis and their symptoms can change over time and ‘flare up’ if triggered by an injury or event. The skin incorrectly over produces skin cells as the immune system attacks healthy cells by mistake. These patches can become inflamed and a wound or an infection may occur in severe cases. Consequently many sufferers are forced to take some time off work.

“Total direct and indirect health care costs of psoriasis for patients are calculated at $11.25 billion annually, with work loss accounting for 40 percent of the cost burden. Approximately 60 percent of psoriasis patients missed an average of 26 days of work a year due to their illness.”(2)

“Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition marked by itchy inflamed patches of skin.” (3) It is characterised with red sore patches that can develop anywhere on the body and is very similar to psoriasis and can affect anyone at any age.

These conditions are medically termed as chronic and not curable, although there are prescription treatments and medications available that can ease the symptoms.

The figures globally of people affected with these common skin problems are shocking to consider. “125 million people worldwide—2 to 3 percent of the total population—have psoriasis” according to the World Psoriasis Day consortium. “Worldwide, about 20 percent of children and up to 3 percent of the adult population have some form of eczema.” (4) Psoriasis and eczema can have a real adverse affect on the quality of life for many sufferers and in some cases severe skin problems can lead to hospitalisation and be life threatening.

Dr John Pagano is a chiropractic physician based in New Jersey whose book ‘Healing Psoriasis’ proposes a natural alternative to traditional therapies for permanently eradicating both eczema and psoriasis. For more than twenty years Dr Pagano has been recommending internal cleansing as the way to cure these diseases ‘from the inside out’. Photos throughout the book show miraculous improvements in the skin of his many patients.

“His regimen focuses on healing the leaky gut syndrome (which he believes causes psoriasis and eczema) through diet, detoxification and spinal adjustments.” says Harry K. Panjwani M.D., Ph.D in the forward of the book. (5)

The major focus of Pagano’s ‘drug-free program’ is recommending a special and mostly alkaline diet to reduce the toxic build up that many people experience in their stomach over time. Specific teas and foods are suggested to assist the healing of the digestive system which leads to what Pagano terms as ‘leaky gut syndrome’. Pagano believes an inefficient and damaged stomach can allow toxins to get into the bloodstream and cause inflammation of the skin as they try to leave the body by an inappropriate route.

Detoxification methods are employed that include focusing on emotional healing and freeing the mind of negativity. Initially chiropractic sessions and also colonic treatments and enemas are all part of the healing program. Adopting correct posture and daily exercising are all prescribed to help rebalance the body. Drinking extra pure water helps to flush out more toxins and steam baths help to replenish the nutrients back into the skin externally. Natural oils such as olive and coconut are also used to help the sore areas of the body repair comfortably. Getting sunshine on the body is a good idea as long as care is taken not to burn. There are many detailed tips which can be found in the easy to read pages of this volume which is available from Amazon and Google and Barnes and Noble in America.

It is definitely worth buying a copy of this book if you or your family are inflicted with eczema or psoriasis. We have personally followed the advice contained within the paperback for more than a month and found it to be positively life changing. It is not a quick fix pill or ointment but once you have started you will see improvements within a short time.

The other downsides are that Pagano’s system requires discipline as it is restrictive and quite a drastic change and requires a lot of adjustment for some people. If you have a sweet tooth and really like caffeinated or alcoholic drinks or if you are a smoker, there are sacrifices to be made for getting completely clear skin. Many folk with eczema and psoriasis also have allergies such as wheat or dairy or may choose to be vegetarian or vegan for personal reasons and for them what is actually ‘allowed’ on the regimen can be rather limited.

Shopping for the proper fruit, vegetables, proteins and grains takes considerable care. Cooking meals can be a little complex as there are lots of foods to avoid and some foods can only be eaten alone. This can cause complication in some restaurants and fast food is completely forbidden. Practice makes perfect with getting used to this new personal routine and how and what to order when dining out. Losing weight is often reported after a few weeks with this diet which many adults welcome. Overeating is definately not advised but snacks are permitted and there is no missing meals or starving unlike many fasting therapies.

However if you are ready to commit to a radical lifestyle change you can achieve a happier, healthier life with no eczema or psoriasis in a matter of weeks or a few months. Compared to other expensive and time consuming eczema and psoriasis prescriptions, equipment and medical sessions Pagano’s plan is revolutionary. This book is published by Wiley and is very highly recommended indeed. This drug free program really works and may be just what you have been waiting for to cure your incurable skin disease forever.

 

(1)(2) ‘Statistics’ National Psoriasis Foundation website 18 Oct 2018 https://www.psoriasis.org/content/statistics

(3)’Eczema: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment’ Healthline, Debra Sullivan 4 Oct 2018 https://www.healthline.com/health/eczema

(4) MG217 website Eczema Statistics 23 Oct 2018 http://www.mg217.com/your-eczema/statistics/

(5) ‘Healing Psoriasis’ The Natural Alternative Book by Dr. John O.A.Pagano, D.C https://www.amazon.co.uk/Healing-Psoriasis-Alternative-John-Pagano/dp/0470267267

 

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