Chief Minister: "We'll support town retailers, but they must change"

Monday 19 January 2015

Chief Minister Ian Gorst has pledged his support for local retailers - but he warned shop owners that they should adapt to give shoppers what they want – and how they want it.

Speaking at the first Jersey Chamber of Commerce lunch of the year, he said: “If people prefer shopping online, that is what retailers need to offer. John Lewis’s latest report highlights the many different ways people can now shop, browse and engage with retailers. Browsing and shopping on the go - from Smartphones and tablets - is now the norm.”

Admitting that he rarely has time to go shopping in town he said flexibility and convenience were what customers demand.

“I know we are a small island, but people are busy. Perhaps 'click and collect' would be popular here - we already have a place where people can pick up their parcels – it’s called the Post Office!” he said.

The States have already committed £150,000 to reinvigorate the Island’s retail sector and Senator Gorst said they were considering giving Jersey Business another £50,000 to further support retailers with marketing, digital support and customer service.

And he said the States were committed to rejuvenating the Island’s capital, which he described as central to economic growth.

“I am determined to build a new partnership with the Constable of St Helier and ministers to make St Helier a better place. We will work closely with the community to develop a new masterplan for a future St Helier. Our shared vision will incorporate the new finance centre, decent homes, parks and open spaces, a distinctive retail centre and a clear transport plan,” he said.

“We want to rejuvenate St Helier so it becomes a modern, vibrant town that preserves the best of its history, accommodates high quality homes and offices and provides great public amenities,” he said.