West of England shops need people’s support more than ever. That is the message from Metro Mayor Dan Norris after retail sales hit their lowest level since Covid lockdowns.
There was a 0.3% decline in sales in October, with the ongoing severe cost-of-living crisis and last month’s poor weather blamed for the latest drop. That means sales have fallen to their lowest level since February 2021 when widespread lockdown restrictions were in place.
The rallying call from Mr Norris comes as he launches his annual call for residents to “Shop Local” as traders gear up for a vital few weeks before Christmas.
There are a whopping 30,000 small firms across the West - from butchers and bakers to pet groomers and pubs - employing more than 180,000 locals in the region.
It has been a rough few years - from the pandemic, to sky-high energy bills, to staff shortages, which is why locals making a special effort to support those in their patch is so important, says the Mayor.
Speaking today, Mayor Dan Norris said: “Today’s stats are a stark reminder of the tough time our shops are facing in this cost-of-living crisis. It’s important for us to get behind them, as shops on our high streets help our communities thrive.
"And here in the West of England, we are especially well off for independent shops that make our area special.
"So in the run up to Christmas, as thoughts turn to Christmas shopping, please shop local.”
