Shop vacancies falling

Thursday 03 November 2022

The Guernsey Retail Group has claimed there are "positive signs of growth and recovery" in the sector so far this year, with a number of new businesses opening.

The GRG carries out regular surveys of properties classified for retail use in town and other key areas across the island.

Its most recent statistics show that the number of empty shops fell more than 5% between the first and second quarters of this year.

At the end of the second quarter the number of vacant shops was 7.8% across town - which the GRG said compares favourably with towns in the UK. It says equivalent statistics suggested shop vacancies there were running at more than 14% in some places.

The GRG has also installed footfall counters at various points in the busy pedestrian areas of St Peter Port which will start to monitor the number of visitors in Town.

Pictured: Smith Street on a quiet, summer day.

Korinne Le Page, Head of Retail Development at the GRG, said this is a positive development for Guernsey.

She said the 'Retail Pathway' initiative which can support entrepreneurs who want to set up shop, has seen a number of success stories.

"The continuous improvements in shop occupancy on-Island can be directly attributed to a higher number of shop openings, expansions of existing outlets and the success of the ‘Retail Pathway’.

"This initiative sees the GRG, landlords and businesses work collaboratively to provide short and medium term rental opportunities for new and established retailers.

"The figures are an encouraging sign that the effects of the pandemic of the past two years are subsiding and show real optimism in the retail sector, particularly when you consider our vacancies are at almost half the level of those on the mainland."

Examples of new retail outlets in St Peter Port include Mazzouk, the Hope Store, Merci Antiques, The Collections Centre, and Snack Time. Beghins has reopened in new premises and Sole Mates has moved further into the central town area, from Mill Street to the Arcade.

Iris and Dora expanded its business with a new retail and creative hub in town as well as its main site in the Ruette Braye.

Outside of town, Che Zoe has opened at L’Islet with Mysa and Sprinkle of Magic at the Bridge.

The new outlets offer a range of items from clothing and shoes to homewares, gifts, craft items and more.

Ms Le Page said this shows entrepreneurial spirit as well as loyalty to local businesses.

"Islanders showed great loyalty during Covid and the return of tourist numbers this year – cruise ship passengers and the longer stay visitors through the harbour and airport – has helped provide a welcome boost to the local retail economy, not just in Town, but across the island. The increase in day trips from the UK being offered by Condor next summer will help increase footfall.

"As an industry, we are determined to continue to offer choice, availability, service and value for money for all consumers and to encourage Islanders to buy locally."