The Covid pandemic has hit businesses across the sectors very hard, leaving many in need of support during what has been the most challenging of times. As they adapt to the new normal, Charlotte visited Birchwood Shopping Centre to meet with the Centre Manager to find out how they are coping with the changes.

Charlotte said:

“Even before Covid, the retail sector faced many challenges particularly in competing with online sellers and overheads like business rates have long needed reform to level the playing field. The new challenges, both in terms of a reduction in footfall/social distancing, and also what a recession would do to consumer spending, are very significant but not insurmountable.

It was really helpful to get John’s perspective on these issues, their experience of the pandemic support packages, and to hear the optimism he has for the centre.

Working with the BEIS Select Committee, the newly established Future of Retail APPG and retail unions, I’ll keep pushing to get the retail sector the support it needs to keep our high streets and shopping centres like Birchwood thriving!”