Mix of relief and concern as small businesses in Mansfield prepare to welcome back Christmas shoppers

Small businesses across Nottinghamshire have breathed a sigh of relief as Christmas shopping can now begin – but concerns remain for those in tier three of the new restrictions.
Shopping will now recommence in Mansfield town centre.Shopping will now recommence in Mansfield town centre.
Shopping will now recommence in Mansfield town centre.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) chairman Mike Cherry has raised concerns about what the continuing restrictions will mean for many firms.

He said: “Many small firms will be breathing a sigh of relief to hear that they’ll be able to reopen their doors once again after the second national lockdown.

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"However many will continue to remain anxious as businesses await to discover what tier they will be placed in and the impact that will have on their trading.

“These have been trying and difficult times for so many, and with the festive season upon us it’s never been more important to see trading resume once again.

"As a result of the Covid crisis, many are carrying excessive levels of debt and uncertainty into the New Year and, with a vaccine on the horizon, will be relying on a Christmas uplift to help them survive through the remainder of the pandemic and beyond.

“We are grateful for those that have held back their Christmas shopping until this moment to support their local shops which means that, for the small business sector, Christmas shopping can finally begin.

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“It is important the threat of suspending Sunday Trading laws is also parked, which would take trade away from small businesses to large supermarkets that have already benefited from the November lockdown of their competition.

“For many small businesses the next few weeks should be the busiest period of the entire year, but city centres, towns and high streets have seen footfall collapse. So that’s why for whichever tier a small business is placed under, the Government should match this with a strong, proportionate level of support.

“Small businesses are absolutely at the heart of our communities, and we rely on them more than ever. Which is why we need to ensure that they have the right support in place during what should normally be a busy, successful and joyous festive period.”