Independent shops will ‘have the will to live taken away’ by Brexit
Independent shops and businesses in Portsmouth are being threatened by Brexit, according to the Albert Road Traders Association.
Jenni Catlow, the association’s chair, says that the negative effects are that the number of customers using local businesses has decreased since June 2016’s referendum.
She said: “Unfortunately, it is definitely curving people’s spending in the road.
“I know some of my friends are going over to Europe because they’re fed up with it.”
With Britain scheduled to leave the European Union on March 29th 2019, Jenni has raised concerns that things will get worse.
“It will affect things badly because, if there’s no footfall, what’s the point?
“We will all struggle every day and have the will to live taken away from us.
“I think it will impact us all horribly.”
Albert Road has gained a reputation as a hub for independent shops, boasting a wide range antiques, decorative arts, vintage and retro stores.
“They (independent shops) are really important because they give people a choice,” Jenny added.
“More so, we have an eye on the community. We have a real connection.”
