'Support us at Christmas so we can survive', say traders
Gloucester Road in Bristol is well-known for its extensive array of independent shops, featuring everything from fruit and vegetable stores to butchers and toy retailers. However, with the increasing allure of online shopping fueled by countless Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions, local businesses may struggle to attract enough customers to stay competitive.
Sarah Thorp operates the independent art store Room 212 on Gloucester Road and expresses her honest views on what the holiday season signifies for small business owners like herself.
“This is the peak season for us, or at least we hope it will be. It's the period that helps sustain us for the upcoming year,” she remarked.
Her store features ceramics, jewelry, and artwork from nearby artists. For the last ten years, she has organized a festive shopping evening along her part of the street to encourage people to shop local.
This year's event was held on a Thursday and featured a street celebration filled with plenty of complimentary food and various fun activities.
"It's a wonderful event that brings the community together," she mentioned.
The locals here are wonderful; they genuinely enjoy supporting us and choose to shop locally instead of online.
"It's more intimate and everything connects back to the community."
During the event, the shops in Bishopston kept their doors open later than usual.
There were complimentary food samples and a variety of activities available, such as crafting wreaths and decorating biscuits.
Sarah mentioned that she doesn't pay much attention to Black Friday.
"I’m not paying attention to it; it’s not something I consider."
"This is my community, and it's a completely different experience compared to being at home and browsing on your laptop," she mentioned.
Harriet Budgett, the owner of Boujon Bakery, was another participant in the event.
In October, she launched her store after beginning her online biscuit decorating venture.
In a conversation with Joe Sims, the host of BBC Radio Bristol Breakfast, Ms. Budgett emphasized the importance of supporting local shops to ensure that independent businesses thrive.
"We've invested a significant amount of effort into this, and your order could be the final boost needed to help others continue with their businesses during these tough times," she remarked.
"It's great to feel a sense of connection and being part of a community."
"[Gloucester Road] is incredible; ever since I launched it, my business has transformed completely."
I'm really enjoying it! I have individuals coming in who are curious about the business, and I have the chance to chat with them.
"I've been active on the internet for four years, and I really appreciate having that personal connection."
The Christmas street party has become a regular event in the neighborhood commonly referred to as 'Pigsty Hill'.
Stores that participated remained open until 8:00 PM GMT, giving shoppers a chance to do some last-minute holiday shopping.
In the evening, there's a unique energy in the air; it's uncommon for places to be open during those hours.
"It enhances the overall vibe, creates a friendly neighborhood atmosphere, and offers a great opportunity to explore a part of Gloucester Road," Ms. Thorp said.
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