How to Make Raised Planters and Add Mediterranean Garden Style

Amanda Howse
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How to Make Raised Planters and Add Mediterranean Garden Style

This spring we have all been making the most of our outdoor spaces especially since the gradual lifting of the regulations has allowed us to walk and meet outside together once again. Inspired by wonderful Mediterranean design we have created a new ceramic stone coloured patio where some old decking used to be.

We have chosen an area of the garden in a mid century terrace in Hampshire, England which faces west and enjoys lots of sunshine. This design could be scaled up by adding more panels and planters or scaled down by just building one planter with a single trellis panel. This method is suitable for a large property or a small balcony. Alternatively installing a trellis planter of this type at the side or front of a property might make a pretty focal point so a tiny outdoor space can still look special.

Mediterranean raised planters with tulips
Mediterranean raised planters with tulips by Create Display

How to make the raised planters with trellis back panels

  1. Firstly to create both impact and privacy in the garden we have built a high fence at least 2.3 metres high using thick wooden posts to make a large frame. The hardest part of this project was connecting the large OSB panels onto an existing rendered brick wall standing around 1.2 metres high.
  2. Using timber posts and a masonry drill we screwed right angled brackets at regular intervals onto both the existing wall and the posts. Then once the structure was ready we screwed the vertical OSB panels closely butted together into place.
  3. The outdoor treated timber lengths now support the orientated strand board (OSB) panels to form a large flat wall. We then painted the new textured wooden surface with dark green fence paint from B&Q’s own brand range. It is a good idea to save time by not cutting the OSB boards and securing them in a portrait orientation gives us the height we wanted. (2)
  4. The supports for the planters were constructed using thick finished spruce timber from B&Q left over from building our studio cabin. It is important to raise the planters up off the patio to help make the space feel as spacious as possible and allow for drainage when watering. Another benefit is being closer to the flowers to make the most of their beauty and plus it makes watering the plants easier. The durable black plastic containers are from B&Q and are a bargain at £6.30 each. (2)
  5. It was easy to fill the planters with fresh soil and pop in the tulip bulbs ready for the warmer weather. We have already grown some climbing clematis and there are more wallflowers planned to continue the vertical planting theme.
  6. We attached eight vertical pieces of trellis from Covers to add interest and support climbing plants. We painted the trellis with Cuprinol from B&Q in the country cream colourway to match our new design studio. (4)

Introducing Meditteranean elements throughout the garden 

In another area of the garden a simple bamboo lattice is easy to create using twine and bamboo sticks. The bamboo arches from Hillier work really well for supporting growing plants like tomatoes. (3)

Clematis, palm and bamboo trellis (detail)
vers Clematis, palm and bamboo trellis (detail)

When we laid the new patio we also added a curving raised bed to soften the edges of the space and provide an area for growing lots of different shrubs and flowers. So far the jasmine has done well and some small palms add texture and interest too. We are adding lots of circular shapes to this otherwise rectangular residential plot to give a much more attractive ‘relaxing on holiday’ terrace feel to what was previously a bland backyard.

Mini roses in large terracotta pot
Mini roses in large terracotta pot

If you travel frequently and don’t have the time or you are unable to care for a grass lawn then artificial grass can be an alternative option. Good quality artificial grass that is carefully and thoughfully added can bring areas of colour and visually soften the hard landscaping in a Mediterranean garden helping to bring harmony to the outdoor haven. See below for tips on choosing artificial grass by GreenSmart Landscaping who are based in the South East of England.

No Mediterranean garden would be complete without terracotta pots of flowers. This outdoor haven features pink roses in a large glazed terracotta urn from our local Hillier garden center. The ceramic container sits on top of a circular raised bed with rounded grey stones that used to be an old water feature. Now the planted old brickwork circle is a pretty botanical focal point that looks great all year round through the patio windows in the kitchen.

Flower wreath blue bow by Create Display
Flower wreath blue bow by Create Display

In the summer months get ready for guests by adding outdoor furniture and textiles in natural materials. Hang up colourful floral wreaths like these handmade pieces from Create Display to decorate the walls of your continental style entertaining area and compliment the colours of your foliage. Enjoy the delights of al fresco dining with friends in a fresh and neat open air oasis or just some well earned time relaxing outside on the patio. (1)

(1) Create Display Etsy shop, 4 May 2021 Create Display Etsy Shop

(2) B&Q home improvement superstore, 4 May 2021 B&Q home improvement superstore

(3) Hillier garden center, 4 May 2021 Hillier garden center

(4) Covers building merchants, 4 May 2021 Covers building merchants

(5) ‘Benefits of Artificial Grass Article, 22 March 2022, GreenSmart Landscaping (based South East of England ‘Benefits of Artificial Grass’ Greensmartlandscaping.co.uk

 

 

Leaders Pledge to Reduce Emissions and Deliver Green Projects to Prevent Planetary Warming

Amanda Howse
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Leaders Pledge to Reduce Emissions and Deliver Green Projects to Prevent Planetary Warming

The Leaders Summit on Climate took place on Earth Day the 22 April in advance of the United nations Climate Change Conference this November in Glasgow.

“A key goal of both the Leaders Summit and COP26 will be to catalyze efforts that keep the 1.5 goal within reach.” This is the target that scientists have said is necessary to limit planetary warming. (1)

European President von der Leyen announced the European Green Deal which aims to make Europe carbon neutral by 2050. All 27 countries in the European Union have agreed to the new targets.

“We also have agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030.” stated Ursula von der Leyen. (2)

President Biden committed the United States to cutting emissions by half by the end of the decade during the virtual Earth Day Summit. His Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told world leaders that climate change policies must be “Fully integrated” and central to any countries national security strategy. (3)

Following Trump’s disregard of the Paris agreement the current President Joe Biden intends to re-energise the USA’s position as a superpower that is serious about delivering change. This is in order to prevent further environmental damage and disasters that are caused around the world by global warming.

The US has doubled financial support for Brazil’s program to prevent deforestation which includes land regularization and ecological-economic zoning. (4)

China’s President Xi Jinping promised to “strictly limit increasing coal consumption” and further phase it down over the next five years. The Chinese aim to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2060. (3)

India’s President Narendra Modi is currently dealing with a deadly wave of coronavirus and a severely impacted economy but pledged to expand India’s “renewable energy projects and urged people to make lifestyle changes.” (3)

As the UK scrapped the Green Deal scheme for environmental upgrades and improvements for homes all over the country due to administrative problems the Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised to quickly phase out the mining and burning of coal. (5)

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed announced a plan named the ‘Saudi Green Initiative’ that aims to reduce emissions by generating half of its emissions by renewable energy by 2030. The Prince also intends to plant 10 billion trees in the Kingdom.

In Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Sugra plans to discuss cooperation on decarbonisation in a meeting with Joe Biden this month. The leaders will discuss Japan “ending support for the exportation of coal fired power plants” to support the international effort to focus on decarbonisation. (5)

Australia is working on a project to direct renewable energy sources such as solar power and batteries to fully power their national grid permanently. This will end reliance on more polluting coal and gas systems. (6)

Russia’s President Vlladimir Putin spoke at the virtual Climate Conference confirming the Russian Federation’s commitment to “meeting the environmental emissions objectives in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.” Russia has introduced new legislation to control carbon emissions which have helped to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half during the last 30 years.

Putin urged governments everywhere to look at all types of emissions including methane and explained that Russia had been doing this successfully in order to look holistically at reducing atmospheric pollutants.  Putin echoed Biden and Johnson’s view that sustainability programs should be seen in a global context. Putin also mentioned how environmental initiatives can generate economic benefits and should be tailored to address high priority areas where poverty is a big problem and there is a development gap for communities.

Canada increased its previous target to reduce emissions 30% below 2005 levels by 2030 to a 40-45% reduction from 2005 levels by 2030. (8)

40 world leaders attended the virtual event hosted by the democratic US President Biden.  There is much hope and positivity at the success of this online event and it is encouraging that so many countries are taking part. Now we need to see the promises of those in charge of our nations turned into action. The emissions and temperature data will show us if we are all on track. It is crucial that everyone including future generations can benefit from fresh air and freedom from the potentially disastrous and negative effects of global warming on our land and seas.

 

(1) ‘President Biden Invites 40 World Leaders to Leaders Summit on Climate’ The White House US Government briefing, 26 March 2021 ‘President Biden Invites 40 World Leaders to Leaders Summit on Climate’ The White House

(2) ‘Speech by President von der Leyen at the Global Leaders Summit hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden on the occasion of Earth Day’ European Commission Brussels, 22 April 2021 ‘Speech by President von der Leyen at the Global Leaders Summit hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden

(3) ‘Biden’s Intelligence Director Vows to Put Climate at ‘Center’ of Foreign Policy, The New York Times, 30 April 2021 ‘Biden’s Intelligence Director Vows to Put Climate at ‘Center’ of Foreign Policy, The New York Times

(4) ‘Climate envoy offers rebuttal to countries wary of US looking to reemerge as global climate leader’ Besty Klein, CNN politics, 22 April 2021 ‘Climate envoy offers rebuttal to countries wary of US looking to reemerge as global climate leader’ Besty Klein, CNN

(5) ‘Joe Biden invites 40 world leaders to virtual summit on climate crisis’ Carbon Brief Daily Briefing 29 March 2021 ‘Joe Biden invites 40 world leaders to virtual summit on climate crisis’ Carbon Brief Daily Briefing

(6) ‘Renewables plus batteries offer Australia the same energy security as coal, research finds’ Nino Bucci, The Guardian, 28 March 2021 ‘Renewables plus batteries offer Australia the same energy security as coal, research finds’ Nino Bucci, The Guardian

(7) ‘Leaders Summit on Climate’ with Vladimir Putin’, President of Russia, Kremlin, Moscow, 22 April 2021 ‘Leaders Summit on Climate’ with Vladimir Putin’, President of Russia, Kremlin, Moscow

(8) ‘Leaders Summit Showcases Clean Energy Commitments to Tackle Global Climate Crisis’ IISD SDG Knowledge Hub, 28 April 2021 ‘Leaders Summit Showcases Clean Energy Commitments to Tackle Global Climate Crisis’ IISD SDG Knowledge Hub

 

The Good and Bad of Being an Island in an Epidemic: Why We All Need a Global Vision.

Amanda Howse
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The Good and Bad of Being an Island in an Epidemic: Why We All Need a Global Vision.

The pros of being an island – the island opportunity

History has shown that geographically a country living on a landmass surrounded by sea borders is at an advantage when dealing with unwanted invaders. We have seen over the last year that this theory also applies to viral infections.

In nearly all cases Covid-19 can only travel easily between people coming into contact with each other and inadvertently spreading disease molecules. This is why it is still so important to protect each other with the wearing of face masks, hand washing and social distancing despite possibly having recently received a coronavirus vaccine.

In our previous HotEnough article ‘Why Boris Johnson Says No to Tightening UK Borders To Prevent Covid-19 Spreading’ we focused on the balancing act that the UK’s Prime Minister and his top team are juggling. This strategy aims to keep trade and commerce flowing but also to limit as many new cases and variants of coronavirus as possible from entering the country.

Fortunately today the vaccination programme is going to plan and relatively speaking the number of people who are currently sick with Covid-19 in NHS hospitals is the lowest number seen for many months.

The Prime Minister and his advisers have delivered the vaccine rollout and the government’s strategy is to use the immunity achieved to slowly lift the restrictions with travel possible from 17th May and all the restrictions lifted by the 21st June, if all the key tests are met. These test factors include ensuring NHS hospital admissions are manageable and the vaccine rollout continues successfully. It is important that the vaccines the population have been given continue to show resistance to any new variants.

Linda Geddes at The Guardian argues that Britain’s island nation status could facilitate tighter border controls that would eradicate the virus so lockdown restrictions can be fully eased. She points out that New Zealand closed their borders and were able to use contact tracing on relatively few cases in addition to screening, testing and quarantine measures. This ensured that in 2020 New Zealanders could not travel but “enjoyed a year nearly completely free from restrictions” This is a huge contrast compared to the UK and other countries in Europe where travelling even a short distance and seeing close family who live nearby has been on a strictly limited basis during lockdown. (1)

Labour has called for tougher measures to prevent multiple cases of new variants entering the country simultaneously. There is then a difficult task in finding sick and non-symptomatic virus carrying travellers who can be hard to track. “Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starma said government scientists had recommended “a complete pre-emptive closure of borders.”

Australia like Hong Kong and Taiwan closed their borders to nearly all travellers early. The BBC reported at the end of January that the Australian continent had only had 28,750 positive cases of Covid-19 during the entire pandemic. (2)

Dr Sarah Jarvis spoke on the ITV lunchtime news to say that “the UK should have shut its borders earlier in the pandemic when cases were lower in Britain than elsewhere.” (3)

The cons of being an island

Being an island means we nearly always need to cross a large expanse of water to visit our neighbours or import and export goods and services. This is why we built the channel tunnel and why the conservatives are loath to ‘batten down the hatches’ and cut us off from keeping the transport of resources between the UK and Europe and beyond flowing freely. Keeping the public safe from any unwanted new variants is one big challenge. Making sure there is food in the shops and that businesses can continue to provide jobs for UK citizens is another critical goal that has been faced by Westminster.

However sadly the UK has experienced the loss of more than 150,000 lives in one of the highest death rates in the world due to this awful disease. We know that the government did not close the borders in the UK last spring and this led to many incidents of the contagion arriving all over Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the first half of 2020. At the time ministers said that this was because they still wanted British nationals to be able to travel home easily. The opposition leader’s view is that the current Tony policy is great for the economy but insufficient when it comes to stopping virus transmission into the UK.

Emily Morgan from ITV asked Mr Johnson this evening why have “tens of thousands of people have travelled between India and the UK over the last few weeks?” and asked why the country was not put on the red list sooner. The Prime Minister replied that India’s coronavirus type is “a variant under investigation” but not “a variant of concern”.  “We have countries under constant review” and “the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommends countries are put on the red or green list.” advised Boris Johnson from his new Press Conference studio.

London is widely held as being the best and most multicultural city in the world. This melting pot of cultures is a strong asset in ‘normal’ times and contributes to the world renowned film, arts and financial, medical, educational and technological industries that can be found in the British Isles. Unfortunately this international aspect is a disadvantage when it comes to a pandemic.

The UK aviation industry is really important to the economy and provides hundreds of thousands of jobs. Airports are vital for visitors from all over the globe and the UK is a hub for many travellers transiting between America and Europe, Asia and many more places across the globe. This popularity is also an ‘achilles heel’ as it makes our main airports such a popular destination that any contagious disease is bound to be able to spread around all the busy aircraft and airport environments and then onto public transport.

Why we need a global vision

Today the BBC reported a desperate situation in the hospitals in Delhi and other cities in India. The Indian national health services are currently overrun and running out of oxygen supplies despite the Indian’s government’s best efforts and with support from the army. It is tragic for all those involved in this brutal second wave of the virus, which is spreading in Asia at the moment.

These events illustrate the importance of vaccinating everyone in the world as quickly as possible. We live in an interconnected modern world where travel is part of work life for people of all nationalities. This virus doesn’t discriminate against those from richer and poorer countries or from any religion or political ideology. Several first world leaders are representing their citizens’ wishes with their plans to vaccinate their populations first and then share any left over medical supplies with their poorer neighbours.

This week Ursula von der Leyen directed that “(Oxford) Astra Zeneca must honour its contract with the European Union before exporting to the UK and the rest of the world.” (4) This is despite the normal practice of companies supplying their customers in the order they purchased them and the Europeans placing their orders many weeks after the UK’s decisive decision last year to order millions of vaccines from the Oxford Asta Zeneca partnership swiftly, to protect their citizens.

At the G7 summit in February Boris Johnson pledged to donate most of the Uk’s surplus vaccine to poorer countries after 400 million doses were ordered. If the suppliers fulfill all the requests correctly there will be too many for the population of Great Britain and Northern Ireland at this time. (6)  At the conference the British Prime Minister stated: “We’ve got to make sure the whole world is vaccinated because this is a global pandemic and it’s no use one country being far ahead of another, we’ve got to move together.” (5)

Achieving a Global Rollout

Many world leaders have made sure that they have purchased more than double what their residents actually need to achieve herd immunity. This is because they have foreseen that due to the nature of global supply chains that there may be delays and cancellations along the way as problems are encountered with materials and other elements of the manufacturing and distribution process. Hopefully this means that over the coming months and years that everyone who needs a jab will receive one but there is still criticism that rich nations are not doing enough.

The Covax scheme was set up by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi) and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (Cepi) to provide an equitable vaccine programme to all countries regardless of their wealth status. 300 countries are included in the project to prevent the spread of Covid-19 which has so far shipped 40.5 million vaccines to 118 participants. (6)

Our ability as humans to collaborate and support each other in positive ways has been seen in impressive political alliances, sports and music competitions and events over the centuries. Developments in technology, education, engineering safety and medicine have been progressively improving the standard of living for generations. Winning the battle against the virus in the long term will involve those in charge of strong economies all across the world, giving these precious life saving inoculations to people living in other areas and cultures all over the planet, who do not have the power to buy what they need themselves.

(1) ‘Covid: could Britain have been more like New Zealand?’ Linda Geddes, The Guardian, 5 Feb 2021 ‘Covid: could Britain have been more like New Zealand?’ Linda Geddes, The Guardian

(2) ‘Hotel quarantine for UK arrivals to be discussed.’ 22 January 2021, BBC News ‘Hotel quarantine for UK arrivals to be discussed.’ BBC News

(3) ‘Covid: Speculation growing UK could shut borders in bid to stop spread of new coronavirus variants’ ITV News, 5 January 2021 ‘Covid: Speculation growing UK could shut borders in bid to stop spread of new coronavirus variants’ ITV News

(4) ‘Covid-19: Europe wants it’s ‘fair share’ of the vaccine’ BBC News, 25 March 2021 ‘Covid-19: Europe wants it’s ‘fair share’ of the vaccine’ BBC News

(5) ‘Covid vaccines: Boris johnson pledges surplus to poorer countries at G7’ BBC News 19 February 2021  ‘Covid vaccines: Boris johnson pledges surplus to poorer countries at G7’ BBC News

(6) ‘Covax vaccine rollout’ Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, 20 April 2021 Covax vaccine rollout’ Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance

What Are the Current Travel Restrictions and Why Is India On the Red List?

Amanda Howse
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What Are the Current Travel Restrictions and Why Is India On the Red List?

What does essential travel only mean?

The current restrictions mean it is illegal to travel abroad from the UK for holidays. All non-essential travel is still banned in the UK.  In England you must have a permitted reason to travel abroad and complete the declaration form if choosing to do so. Essential work, voluntary work or education that could not be carried out in the UK are all deemed valid reasons.

Organising activities related to buying, selling, letting or renting a residential property is also a reasonable excuse, as is carrying out a legal or judicial duty. Accessing medical treatment or providing emergency assistance to another person is also deemed a proper reason. Attending a close family wedding or a funeral is also allowed. (1)

The UK government guidance directs that “All arrivals are to have a negative Covid test from within the past 72 hours, taken while still abroad.”

“Mass testing of all arrivals: All passengers arriving in the UK will be tested for coronavirus on day two and day eight of their isolation regardless of the country they come from and whether they are at home or in hotel quarantine.” (2)

Red list days are here for now

Passengers arriving from countries on the ‘red list’ (where new strains of Covid-19 have been identified) have to quarantine in government sanctioned hotels. (3)

This spring Boris Johnson and the Department for Transport have stated that “Anyone arriving in England must quarantine for 10 days and take 2 coronavirus tests while in quarantine.”

“If you have been in a country on the travel ban red list in the 10 days before you arrive, you will need to quarantine in a government approved hotel.” (4)

Red list countries include several South American, African and Asian countries. On April 9th Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan and Philippines were all added to the UK’s red list. (5) This week on Monday (19th) it was announced on the BBC that India will join countries on the red list from 4am on Friday 23rd April. (6)

For a full list of rules regarding international travel from and to the UK see the link to the UK government website below. (1)

Why has India been added to the red list? 

“Experts are currently investigating the B.1617 variant (found in India) to see whether it is more transmissible, deadly, or it can evade vaccines.” reported ITV News today (Tuesday 20th April) This is following Boris Johnson cancelling his trip to India because of the potential threat to himself and his team. Unfortunately more than 150,000 new cases a day have been recorded in India for three weeks and a new strain of the virus first identified there has now been found in Britain. (6)

(1) ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): declaration form for international travel’ Gov.UK Guidance, 20 April 2021 ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): declaration form for international travel’ Gov.UK Guidance

(2) ‘Calls for sweeping border curbs to protect UK against new Covid variants.’ Jessica Elgot, Ian Sample, Peter Walker and Sarah Boseley, The Guardian, 8 Feb 2021 ‘Calls for sweeping border curbs to protect UK against new Covid variants.’ Jessica Elgot, Ian Sample, Peter Walker and Sarah Boseley, The Guardian

(3) Covid: ‘Not practical’ to close UK borders, says Boris Johnson’ Caroline Davies, Transport Correspondent, BBC News, 3 Feb 2021 Covid: ‘Not practical’ to close UK borders, says Boris Johnson’ Caroline Davies, Transport Correspondent, BBC News

(4) ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel corridors, Department for Transport’, 11 February 2021 ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): travel corridors, Department for Transport’

(5) ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): red list travel ban countries’, 9 April 2021 ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19): red list travel ban countries’, 9 April 2021

(6) ‘Covid: Boris Johnson to lead coronavirus press conference as India variant concerns grow’ ITV News, 20 April 2021 ‘Covid: Boris Johnson to lead coronavirus press conference as India variant concerns grow’ ITV News

 

Why Boris Johnson Says No to Tightening UK Borders To Prevent Covid-19 Spreading

Amanda Howse
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Why Boris Johnson Says No to Tightening UK Borders To Prevent Covid-19 Spreading

“We will learn to live with this disease as other diseases” exclaimed Boris Johnson this evening confident in his keenness to stick to his plan of focusing on an impressive vaccination program, followed by a slow and careful lifting of restrictions.

Boris Johnson stated in a press conference last night that “we must learn to live with this disease.” He explained how the vaccination program has been a success and it was announced that 33 million people had now had their first jabs. The numbers do look impressive with 10 million people now fully vaccinated, which is 1 in 5 adults in England.

The Prime Minister declared that there is “nothing in the date that makes me want to deviate from the roadmap.” This spring’s roadmap is the welcome series of steps that means all the lockdown measures should be lifted by June 21st, if all the healthcare demand for resources conditions are met and there are no problems with the vaccination programme.

Johnson declined to commit in advance to which countries it might be possible to travel to when the restrictions are lifted next month saying “We won’t be able to give red, amber, green list details until early May. It is premature to speculate but we will say more before May 17th.”

In an indication of the top team at Westminster’s thinking in February Transport Secretary Grant Schapps told the Commons Transport Committee: “The idea that the UK could completely batten down its hatches and remain battened down for a year is mistaken.” according to Caroline Davies at BBC News. (1)

There has been strong resistance to introducing a further ban on commercial visitors reaching the shores of Great Britain from the travel industry, which has suffered greatly like several other sectors due to the travel bans and restrictions. Industry body Airlines UK wrote to the government at the end of January questioning the need for further tightening of UK borders.

The Airlines UK letter to Johnson was signed by the leaders of British Airways, EasyJet,Tui and Virgin Atlantic, Loganair, Jet2, Titan Airways, CargoLogicAir and AirTanker. The “airline’s chiefs claim to have seen no compelling scientific evidence that introducing a policy potentially of blanket quarantine in hotels is necessary in addition to measures only recently introduced.” according to FlightGlobal news. (2)

Will UK tighten borders?

Labour Leader Kier Starmer accused the government of doing “too little too late” and told the Commons in January that “the government is failing to protect the public against Covid-19.” (3)

So in the unlikely event there is a snap election and My Starmer becomes Prime Minister theoretically he could choose to follow a New Zealand / Australian style border closure until the Covid-19 threat level has subsided. However as a general election is not due until May 2024 this scenario is extremely doubtful.

At the end of January 2021 The Telegraph reported that the home Secretary Priti Patel told members of parliament that “The government ‘will not hesitate’ to take further action and strengthen border restrictions to protect the UK from the new Covid-19 variants.” However Ms Patel later admitted that she had been overruled by the top team who are keen to continue international trade in order to support the economy. (4)

Why managing border control is a precarious balancing act in 2021

As the UK imports far more than it exports and it is primarily a service driven economy it seems that any Prime Minister is stuck between a ‘rock and a hard place’ when it comes to the balance of locking down to prevent new infections and allowing business to happen through borders that are open to both inbound and outbound travellers, to a certain degree.

There are serious consequences for the financial situation and health for millions of individuals and families across the nation as a result of the decisions that are made in Westminster. We have a recent example of how new Covid-19 cases soared after the usual European travel holidays took place last year.

There are also very real life changing effects for the welfare of households and the availability of jobs, incomes and budgets for benefits which can be felt acutely by millions of citizens as a result of the lockdowns. We have all seen that women, children and some of the poorest and most vulnerable in our society have been hit the hardest by the impact of this pandemic.

Whether Labour, Conservatives or another party is in power in the coming months and years it is going to be difficult to choose between closing the borders to keep the public safe and opening up our country to encourage a smooth flow of goods and resources and to generate the prosperity and growth that international trade enables.

Life is about time and opportunity

It is easy to judge in hindsight and nobody knows how the coronavirus may develop in the future or if it will simply recede into insignificance naturally, as the world becomes an increasingly vaccinated place.

In the UK we will always be able to look back and say ‘we are an island and we had the opportunity to secure our borders against visitors and returning citizens who might bring a contagious virus into our population.’ It seems the practicality of taking such measures and the resulting impact on civil liberties and trade, is one big step too far for our commercially driven leaders this year.

(1) Covid: ‘Not practical’ to close UK borders, says Boris Johnson’ Caroline Davies, Transport Correspondent, BBC News, 3 Feb 2021 ‘Covid: ‘Not practical’ to close ‘UK borders says Boris Johnson’ Caroline Davies, BBC News

(2) ‘UK airline leaders call for support and exit plan as borders tighten.’ Lewis Harper, Flight Global 27 January 2021 ‘UK airline leaders call for support and exit plan as borders tighten’ Lewis Harper, Flight Global

(3) ‘Labour attacks Johnson government for lax Covid border controls’ Jom Pickard, The Financial Times, 20 January 2021  ‘Labour attacks Johnson government for lax Covid border controls’ Jom Pickard, The Financial Times

(4) ‘UK ‘will not hesitate’ to tighten borders Priti Patel warns’ The Telegraph 26 January 2021 ‘UK ‘will not hesitate’ to tighten borders Priti Patel warns’ The Telegraph

Newcomers Fresh Shop Fronts Brighten the Streets in Sussex

Amanda Howse
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Newcomers Fresh Shop Fronts Brighten the Streets in Sussex

Retail reopens and springs forward 

There was joy and excitement yesterday as millions of ‘non essential’ businesses in England were allowed to reopen again after the third national lockdown because of Covid-19. Newcomers fresh shop fronts are brightening the streets in Chichester this week.

There was also a positive change in the form of several new premises which are welcoming visitors for the first time.

St Wilfrid's Hospice Shop East Street,Chichester
St Wilfrid’s Hospice Shop East Street, Chichester

East Street 

Jewellers R L Austin Ltd offered a temptingly smart shop front in East Street. Nearby St Wilfrid’s hospice are now creating a boutique feel with their new pre-loved vintage bazaar in this prime location, which used to house the Oasis fashion company.

Bangerz and Burgerz new restaurant in Chichester
Bangerz and Burgerz new restaurant in Chichester

South Street

Charles Clinkard is offering footwear for the whole family after seeing a gap in the market. For example Clarks is closing some of its stores in the area and focusing on their online offering. The new Charles Clinkard South Street store is perfectly placed to be extremely popular as the season progresses.

A striking new restaurant ‘Burgerz and Bangerz’ opened today also in South street providing diners of all ages with hearty dishes in a colourful, street art inspired informal environment. They cater for vegetarian, gluten free and vegan diets too.

Next door is Lime Squeezy which is a Thai restaurant that is currently being decorated ready for a grand launch in May.

These newcomers join several new businesses which started up in the town as part of the councils Pop Up Shop Scheme last year.

Joe Stack at The Chichester Observer reported that these include Co Co Baby which sells new and second hand baby equipment. The Apuldram centre now has a base to showcase its wares and the profits help to support the talent of the local people that the Centre helps.

Greenie’s clothing is a much needed new clothes shop in Crane Street located just off the main high street.

British Heart Foundation Furniture Shop Chichester, Sussex
British Heart Foundation Furniture Shop Chichester, Sussex

North Street

Around the corner in North Street fresh fronted Kokoro have become the first company to sell Japanese food such as sushi and sashimi. Located in the heart of this cultural Sussex city Kokoro will be wonderful news for foodies heading into town from near and far.

Vaccination confidence creates renewed demand for physical stores

The BBC cited the success of the vaccination program in boosting a nationwide demand for shopping in bricks and mortar stores as shoppers feel safer and generally have a renewed optimism for visiting public places. The relatively low numbers of Covid-19 in the UK as the 3rd lockdown restrictions are lifted gradually combined with the safety guidelines in carefully organised commercial premises, have persuaded most people to support their local towns once again.

Despite the generous government subsidies for businesses there are many thousands of companies who have not been able to weather the financial storm created by the need to stop the spread of coronavirus and the forced closures.

It is noteworthy that 2 of the new boutiques in Chichester are charity shops who do not pay rates and therefore have an advantage commercially against privately owned brands. The local council needs privately owned companies of all sizes to continue to fill the commercial centre in order to pay taxes that support the economy and other services that the local area needs.

At the moment the hospitality industry is only allowed to serve food and drinks outside. Many restaurants, pubs and cafes are still not making any profit under the current restrictions as their profit margins are usually already low when taking into account occupying a normal seating arrangement inside.

Team leaders in all sorts of organisations are keen to get back in the swing of trading and they are all looking forward to further lifting of restrictions. Step 3 which includes indoor reopening for the hospitality industry is due to begin on May 17th. This change will happen next month if all is well with Boris Johnson’s roadmap, the country’s statistical health criteria that needs to be met and the continuing vaccine roll out.

It is heartening to see a traditional market city like Chichester in Sussex full of colour and life again. Enterprises are operating in a challenging retail environment where online purchases make up the majority of sales of food, clothing and home furnishings. Therefore managers will have to provide excellent customer service, quality products and an entertaining experience for all visitors, to encourage them to keep returning regularly in the future.

 

(1) ‘New business pops up in Chichester city centre’ Joe Stack, 18 March 2020 New business pops up in Chichester’ Joe Stack Chichester Observer

(2) ‘High Street sales tipped to surge 50% on 12 April, BBC News 8 April 2021  ‘High Street sales tipped to surge 50% on 12 April’, BBC News

Remarkable Retail Reopening as Queing Crowds Brave Snow

Amanda Howse
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Remarkable Retail Reopening as Queing Crowds Brave Snow

England’s cautious lifting of Covid restrictions continues

In line with Boris Johnson’s roadmap for a cautious lifting of coronavirus restrictions high streets across England saw a reopening of non-essential shops today. Cafes, restaurants and pubs are now allowed to serve drinks and meals outdoors as long as social distancing and hand hygiene protocols are observed. This is in line with the new guidelines which mean up to 6 people or 2 households can meet outside.

T K Maxx shoppers rush to reopening
T.K.Maxx shoppers rush back to reopening

Remarkable reopening in Chichester

At 8am this morning in Chichester, West Sussex crowds gathered in the city centre despite freezing temperatures and snow showers.

“There was a queue of 60 customers at 8am this morning, it was a bit of a shock.” said an assistant at the largest department store in Chichester T K Maxx.

There were also long lines outside Next this morning as local residents flocked to be the first to see the mid-season sale items on display.

Many retailers in the historic centre including charity shops and coffee shops were delighted to be opening their doors and busy once again and there were high spirits and a buzz around town this afternoon. The atmosphere was boosted by upbeat musical buskers. As the day progressed the warm sunshine made the outdoors only refreshments an enjoyable experience for folk of all ages. It was great to see the cafe culture thriving in the medieval streets again.

New Shop Safety Guidelines Launched

Marks & Spencer contacted all their M&S regulars this morning to remind them of the shop safely guidelines which were also observed by all the other organisations we visited:

Face – wear a face covering

Distance – keep at least 2 mentres from others

Sanitise – sanitise and wash hands often

Avoid Groups – shop alone whenever possible

Be Kind – be considerate to eachother and our colleagues

Not Quite Changing Rooms

“Customer toilets will be open and you can get takeaways from our in-store cafés. The changing rooms remain closed for now.” The fitting rooms are understandably challenging to run given the way that Covid-19 can easily spread through close contact and particles in the air. However many men and women are keen to be able to use this facility when shopping for ladieswear, menswear and childrenswear as this is one of the main benefits of choosing to purchase clothes, shoes and underwear in a physical store.

It can save time to be able to select the right size, colour and style of apparel and accessories in one visit. This is because it avoids the disappointment of sending merchandise back by post if it is incorrect of unsuitable, possibly a few times before finding the perfect piece for any individual or family member.

Notable absences in the centre

For many locals and key workers the event was bitter sweet. There are several closed and empty stores on the main roads where businesses like Monsoon, House of Fraser, Edinburgh Woollen Mill and Top Shop were very obviously missing from the usual big brand favourites.

Cautious optimism on trend for this summer

A full list of the different types of enterprises that are now allowed to trade again can be found on the official government website (2)

This change in the guidance is Step 2 on Boris Johnson’s roadmap to gradually returning to a new normal in England. Part 3 is the next significant stage. This will happen on or after the 17th May if all continues to go to plan. There are key criteria that need to be met including keeping the demand for the NHS and other providers services manageable and the continuation of the impressive Covid-19 vaccination program roll out.

As 5:30pm drew closer shop and cafe managers and their teams all across the city said they were happy, tired, relieved and grateful that the reopening of their venues had gone as well as any of them hoped. This chilly Monday in April will be a memorable day for Chichester residents. Today’s sale figures bode well for a gradual return to a prosperous commercial community full of residents, students and tourists who love to meet, shop, socialise and relax in this picturesque metropolitan area.

(1) T.K.Maxx ‘Safety remains a priority’ 12 April 2021 ‘Safety remains a priority’ T.K.Maxx

(2) Marks and Spencer Covid-19 guidelines, 12 April 2021 Marks and Spencer Covid-19 guidelines

(3) ‘Reopening businesses and venues’ Gov UK Cabinet Office, 12 April 2021 (2) ‘Reopening businesses and venues’ Gov UK Cabinet Office

Spring Recipe: Sugar Free, Gluten Free Cooking Apple and Coconut Cake

Amanda Howse
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Spring Recipe: Sugar Free, Gluten Free Cooking Apple and Coconut Cake

Dried Ingredients

2 mugs – Gluten Free Self Raising Flour Doves Farm or supermarket own brand

1 mug – coconut flour such as Holland & Barrett

½ mug – mixed cranberries and raisins or any dried fruit supermarket own brand

1 mug – ground almonds / can mix with flaked almonds

1 teaspoon – cinnamon

1 teaspoon – ginger fresh & / or dried

1 teaspoon – nutmeg

1 teaspoon – mixed spice

 ½ teaspoon – bicarbonate of soda

½ teaspoon – baking powder

1 handful – nuts almonds or sweet nuts, optional to decorate cake top

Wet Ingredients

2 apples – big green apples chopped up,  we like green cookers best

6 large eggs – or equivalent of whatever size you have

½ mug – strong tea, just use your favourite tea

¼ – ½ mug – coconut milk, add milk to help achieve a thick batter consistency

¼ mug – butter can use coconut oil if keeping dairy free or vegetarian

¼ mug – olive oil can use coconut oil if keeping dairy free

1 tablespoon – coconut oil, optional

1 Banana – optional for sweeter cake

¼ mug – prune or pineapple juice, optional for sweeter cake

Cooking Apple and Coconut Cake with Pudding (portrait)
Cooking Apple and Coconut Cake with Pudding (portrait)

Method

  1. Set the oven temperature initially to 200 degrees celsius or a hot gas oven.

  2. Prepare 25 centimeter round cake tin with a cake liner (Asda and Poundland sell these) or greaseproof baking paper.

  3. Select a large mixing bowl and add all the dry ingredients except baking powder and bicarbonate of soda.

  4. Melt butter in a microwave or heat in a saucepan slowly and mix into dry ingredients using a wooden spoon.

  5. Add olive oil, coconut oil, chopped apple and a banana if you like a sweeter cake and mix.

  6. Add eggs one by one and mix well.

  7. Add baking powder and bicarbonate of soda

  8. Blend with a hand blender for a minute if you have one.

  9. Look at the texture of the cake mix. If the mix resembles a thick pancake batter you are ready for baking.

  10. If your cake mix is still a very stiff texture that requires effort to stir with a spoon add more liquid ingredients such as strong tea, prune or pineapple juice and coconut milk until you have a thick pancake batter consistency.

  11. Pour the batter mix into a round cake tin and sprinkle a handful of extra nuts on the top if you like to simply decorate the top and remind people this cake contains nuts.

  12. Bake in the middle of the oven for 30 minutes at 190 degrees celsius.

  13. Check cake to see if cooked using a sharp knife in the centre – if it comes out cleanly it is cooked. See after 30 minutes and if the top of the cake is going quite brown cover the top loosely with foil.

  14. Cook for another 10-20 minutes depending on your oven until the cake bounces back nicely when prodded with a finger and a knife comes out cleanly. If in doubt undercook the cake slightly as will carry on cooking a little after it comes out of the oven.

  15. Cool cake in tin on a cake rack and cover top with a clean tea towel. Once cool turn out of tin and cake liner and slide onto a plate.

  16. Store in a cake tin or airtight box.

  17. If the cake does look too undercooked when it is cut just pop some slices in the oven or microwave to reheat.

  18. As the gluten free flour contains rice flour keep this cake in the fridge or chiller after a few hours.

  19. Serve warm after reheating in the oven or microwave with yoghurt and more fruit and nuts and your favourite hot drink. For a treat try a ginger jam topping.

  20. This cake will keep fresh in the fridge for up to a week and can be enjoyed at any time of the day!

Apple and Coconut Cake - slightly undercooked example
Apple and Coconut Cake – slightly undercooked example
Apple and Coconut Cake with Ginger Jam Topping
Apple and Coconut Cake with Ginger Jam Topping

The New High Street: How To Inspire Purchasers with Aspirational Experiences

Amanda Howse
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The New High Street: How To Inspire Purchasers with Aspirational Experiences

Planning an interior adventure

Sampling foods and drinks and other products that engage the senses like perfumes, candles, textured furnishings and music can be a pleasurable adventure. These are charming activities for somebody wanting some more ‘me time’ or friends and families enjoying a few quality hours out together.

Providing opportunities to educate and inform curious clientele works well too. Talks and interviews, live demonstrations, interactive displays and clever highlighting of stock all encourages loyalty and future purchases. Most people want to hold a camera or a piece of technology in their hands in order to feel the weight and texture of the materials. Test driving cars and climbing on motorbikes is an exciting and memorable experience. Trying on jewellery, shoes, underwear and any other close fitting apparel gives tourists and regulars alike the confidence to instantly part with their earnings or savings.

Almost everyone has missed going to the hairdressers during the enforced closures over the last 12 months. One of the things they have longed for is the stimulating combination of a relaxing and often beautiful interior, their favourite hot drink, magazines, personal contact by a friendly expert and some pampering. It is more than just a haircut, it is a friendship and an experience. This concept can be translated into an unlimited number of different retailers.

One of the reasons Disney parks and the best visitor attractions in London are so permanently popular is that they know how to ‘surprise and delight’. Unexpected shapes, colours, patterns, costumes, characters, sounds and environments greet households and couples as they move through the sections of these fun filled centres.

Clever lighting and the latest technology can be employed to set the scene for the latest range of merchandise. For example an artfully arranged outdoor party scene can be wondrously enticing. Employing an element of fantasy, arranging unusual items together and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere, will get any venture remembered and known for all the right reasons.

Including screens with film, video and your own website installations can strengthen a retail interior and brand image. Care needs to be taken in order to deliver the desired emotional ambience and response in the customer. The overall space can entertain, charm, educate, inspire or amuse shoppers. Capturing a subtle mood with inspiration from a specific historical time and place can be very powerful in setting the scene for displaying any company’s wares.

Less is More when it comes to Experiential Retail

Managing the numbers that are welcomed through the doors at any given time will be relevant even when the current restrictions are lifted. We have all been to a gallery where we couldn’t see the paintings properly because it was so packed full of cultured citizens. Systems are needed in order to keep the quality of the experience positive and the flow through the shopfloor special for each loyal customer. Online booking systems can help to manage expectations at busy times. Even an old fashioned queue can provide an opportunity to inform, converse and captivate a crowd with some mood boosting diversions.

However there may be a few exceptions to this rule. For example a music and musical instruments store might sell tickets to a live concert where a big crowd can just add to the experience as long as the building is capacious enough to accommodate dozens of fans. A sports apparel label might hold live matches and games if it has basketball sized court facilities  like the NikeTown emporium in the West End of London. (11)

The process for paying for purchases needs to be well thought out and appropriate to the type of company and its corporate or informal image. Amazon have just launched their second ‘just walk out’ till point free supermarket by utilising the latest security hardware and smartphone apps. Using the latest technology to receive payments can make even ‘the boring bit at the end’ a pleasure. (12)

Some returns are inevitable and ensuring that the returns process is as easy and painless is imperative and prevents any bad reviews too. Considering all the steps in every customer’s experience carefully will bring smooth buying encounters that everyone will want to repeat.

Less is More when it comes to Experiential Retail

Managing the numbers that are welcomed through the doors at any given time will be relevant even when the current restrictions are lifted. We have all been to a gallery where we couldn’t see the paintings properly because it was so packed full of cultured citizens. Systems are needed in order to keep the quality of the experience positive and the flow through the shopfloor special for each loyal customer. Online booking systems can help to manage expectations at busy times. Even an old fashioned queue can provide an opportunity to inform, converse and captivate a crowd with some mood boosting diversions.

However there may be a few exceptions to this rule. For example a music and musical instruments store might sell tickets to a live concert where a big crowd can just add to the experience as long as the building is capacious enough to accommodate dozens of fans. A sports apparel label might hold live matches and games if it has basketball sized court facilities  like the NikeTown emporium in the West End of London. (11)

The process for paying for purchases needs to be well thought out and appropriate to the type of company and its corporate or informal image. Amazon have just launched their second ‘just walk out’ till point free supermarket by utilising the latest security hardware and smartphone apps. Using the latest technology to receive payments can make even ‘the boring bit at the end’ a pleasure. (12)

Some returns are inevitable and ensuring that the returns process is as easy and painless is imperative and prevents any bad reviews too. Considering all the steps in every customer’s experience carefully will bring smooth buying encounters that everyone will want to repeat.

Why Experiential Retail is Fundamental To Survival On The High Street

Amanda Howse
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0
Why Experiential Retail is Fundamental To Survival On The High Street

The virtual marketing and social media experience is limited

Communicating using the internet has been a salvation for nearly all of us during the last year of official ‘stay at home’ guidance preventing the spread of coronavirus Covid-19. People all around the world naturally love to go out, meet other people and get a change of scene. Consequently shopping is one of the nation’s most popular leisure activities. Although the majority of sales are now done online there is still a huge desire for communities to embrace and frequent their bricks and mortar shops once again, as soon as it is safe to do so.

Martin Brudnizki at Martin Brudnizki Interior Design warns not to over emphasise the importance of social media and Instagram photos when it comes to interior design. For the experienced designer it is all about the “atmosphere and experiences.” Brudnizki reminds us that lighting, texture, music, ambience and subtle cues involving all the senses are all vital components when properly experiencing a space. (1)

Humans like time to touch and “smell the leather” in the showroom

Bob Novogratz is the Co-Founder at The Novogratz and talks about how he and his wife Cortney are ‘contraryonists’. Together they have opened a flagship store in Venice Beach in Los Angeles which is a “multi-functional design space” to showcase how their furniture looks in actual real interiors. Bob Novogratz is confident that people will go out to experience how the collection looks and feels, when it is positioned together in room sets. The talented American team are looking forward to expanding into the UK interiors market in the near future. (2)

All the major furniture chains in the market know how essential accurate measurements are to completing happy orders. The proportions of how a room is balanced visually is a priority. The right chairs, tables, sofas and other pieces perfectly arranged within it, is equally crucial for forming both a well functioning abode and feeling really relaxed at home. This is why showrooms can be helpful and why Ikea transforms its warehouses into complete apartments and also several separate suites that mimic the accommodation found in ordinary houses.

Everyone enjoys immersing in the experience

Peter Cross at John Lewis talks about people wanting to “bathe in the experience” How the new retail landscape is all about “selling a lifestyle not a teacup.” (3)

When the big stores finally open up again next month they will be reflecting and expanding on their “inspiring virtual events, masterclasses and workshops (that) offer a host of fresh new experiences to explore this spring.” Almost every department will welcome everyone back with events that celebrate the latest products and services and impress residents with heritage stories, demonstrations and all sorts of fun happenings.  (5)

Physical stores can reinforce clear brand messages

Professional marketing managers know that repeating the latest information in a ‘short and sweet way’ regarding the promotions that are happening today, this week and this season is the right way to regularly update their company’s patrons. Consistency across all the channels is vital to achieve the most powerful connection with both existing and potential shoppers.

“It’s frustrating if you can’t buy from a window.” suggests Molly Park from experience. The stationary and card retailer recommends using all online and physical spaces together even if your store is temporarily shut because of government restrictions. Conveying a clear message to your public is equally important if you are trading from a market stall or your company runs a multi channel chain of outlets. Making campaigns or weekly themes that are repeated across all areas keeps branding is simple and effective. (7)

Aspirational experiences inspire purchasers

“You are not just buying a picture you are buying ‘my life’” explains Bryony Sheridan who has been a Buyer for Liberty for the last ten years. Sheridan is describing how men and women want to buy into a lifestyle that they aspire to. This future vision may well be inspired by someone else’s tastes and chosen furnishings. (9)

Visually saying “you can buy it right here” is the way to approach retail design according to Bob Novogratz. “Most people want to buy the mannequin: putting the look together is more difficult than you think” explains The Novogratz interiors company owner. Anyone looking to achieve a great style with their fashion or home interiors knows it is more than just buying a couple of items alone. Many people lack confidence with colour, materials, design principles, storage and basic DIY skills. The general population is busy and needs to keep it simple when investing in any new ensemble in their life. (2)

People desire a personal experience

It has been common practice ever since luxury stores first existed to create a private space for VIP’s and wealthy ladies and gentlemen. Traditionally these big spenders liked to be personally greeted and assisted with their specific commodity needs and have every wish fulfilled. Good relationships have always developed between the best assistants and their clients and as Francesca Nicasio writes in Vend becoming a “consultant, expert and friend” is the way forward. Nicasio suggests “you need to train them to relate better to customers” in order to “design in store experiences that drive traffic and sales.” This ideal is hard to accomplish but worth aspiring towards, in any selling establishment today. As the old saying goes “people buy people”. (10)

Offering customised experiences can add a lot of value for folk of all ages when they are spending time in any physical shop. Bakers and confectioners have been adding customised messages for decades. Clothing, stationary and accessories with a name and address embellished on the top are a traditional crowd pleaser. Opticians and picture framers have been offering different combinations for generations. Having areas for visitors to be able to use products that they might not have the opportunity or space to explore at home is a smart idea. Introducing a creative studio, commercial kitchen, stage, catwalk or therapy zones all makes sense when encouraging customers to explore new ranges.

The pandemic lockdown has led to more than half of the population feeling lonely at times. We are naturally a sociable species and a visit to the shops can soon continue to be a joyous social occasion, which can enhance anyone’s well being.

Fortune favours the bold

The American designer decorator and retailer Bob Novogratz encourages entrepreneurs to be brave at this challenging time as “there is opportunity and rents are cheap, have a plan A,B,C.”

Winston Churcill stated that “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” The Austrian management consultant Peter Drucker echoed this thinking and said that “The entrepreneur always searches for change, responds to it and exploits it as an opportunity.” Peter Drucker (11)

Creative director and writer Michelle Ogundehin and judge on the popular current TV show Interior Design Masters warned that “retail design is the biggest challenge we have right now.” This is because it is essential that our shops invite, entertain, engage and give customers fun and playful experiences that they want. Ogundehin reminded the contestants who were redesigning the chosen high street boutiques located at the famous Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent, that customers of all ages including their pets, desire a positive journey through any store’s spaces. When returning to their local commercial centres out of curiosity, the public needs to be impressed, or they will not bother to venture out again to discover any unexpected purchases and leisure activities. (13)

‘Retail is detail’ and customers will be craving a series of ‘mini events’

The secret to becoming and remaining a successful retailer in our town and city centres in 2021 is having a strong brand, knowing your target customer base and creating fresh experiences. In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland many hundreds of voluminous and old fashioned department stores and dated fashion brand chains have disappeared, both before and during the pandemic.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government is offering rate reductions and grants to small businesses to help kickstart the economy again. There is an affordable gap in the market for youthful, creative and different businesses to move in, emerge and prosper and for our communities to become the thriving, buzzing meeting places they once were. (14)

The entrepreneur’s who run the bravest and newest names to join the British marketplace will know the importance of respecting the values of a modern consumer. These innovative leaders will know their customers are concerned about style, sustainable manufacturing, ethics and the environment, supporting local jobs and convenience. They will also be aware that their tempting destination needs to provide a frequently changing and unique sensory journey for both their best clients and eager day trippers. Continually captivating an audience and exceeding expectations is the ticket for both established and new retailers to succeed and grow in the future.

There is bound to be some pent up demand as we move out of economic shutdown. The cautious lifting of the restrictions in England in mid April should include many thousands of retail reopenings. Hopefully we will see the start of a slow but continuously positive increase in turnover, for manufacturing and the whole service industry. It will be fascinating to see how the high street and out of town industrial estates can evolve now there is a clear roadmap for opening up in the UK. It is definitely an exciting time to be an up and coming brand. Now is the time to be courageous and rise up to the challenge of making the British high street full of brilliant experiences once more.

 

(1) Martin Brudnizki Design Studio MBDS, Interior Design,  17 March 2021  Martin Brudnizki Design Studio MBDS, Interior Design

(2) Bob Novogratz Founder of The Novogratz Interior Design and Interiors Retailer, 17 March 2021  Bob Novogratz Founder of The Novogratz Interior Design and Interiors Retailer

(3) Peter Cross, John Lewis Partnership Customer Experience Director, 17 March 2021 Peter Cross, John Lewis Partnership Customer Experience Director

(4) Peter Cross, John Lewis Partnership Customer Experience Director, 17 March 2021 Peter Cross, John Lewis Partnership Customer Experience Director

(5) ‘Experience something new’ John Lewis Partnership, 17 March 2021 ‘Experience something new’ John Lewis Partnership, 17 March 2021

(6) Molly Park at Papier, Stationary, Cards and Gift Retailer, 17 March 2021 Molly Park at Papier, Stationary, Cards and Gift Retailer

(7) Molly Park at Papier, Stationary, Cards and Gift Retailer, 17 March 2021  Molly Park at Papier, Stationary, Cards and Gift Retailer

(8) Bryony Sheridan, Buyer, Liberty Ltd., 17 March 2021 Bryony Sheridan, Buyer, Liberty Ltd.

(9) Bryony Sheridan, Buyer, Liberty Ltd., 17 March 2021  Bryony Sheridan, Buyer, Liberty Ltd

(10) ‘7 Ways to Create In-Store Experiences That Drive Traffic and Sales’ Francesca Nicasio, Vend blog, 10 July 2018 ‘7 Ways to Create In-Store Experiences That Drive Traffic and Sales’ Francesca Nicasio, Vend

(11) ‘30 Quotes on Opportunity’ Workspace Digital 17 March 2021 ‘30 Quotes on Opportunity’ Workspace Digital

(12) Michelle Ogundehin Architect and Interior Designer, 17 March 2021 Michelle Ogundehin Designer on Instagram

(13) Michelle Ogundehin Architect and Interior Designer, 17 March 2021 Michelle Ogundehin’s Book Happy Inside

(14) ‘Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19) 17 March 2021 ‘Financial support for businesses during coronavirus (COVID-19)

 

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