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Confessions of a Retailer
Listed under: One Voice
Published: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
As we move towards the end of what has been a difficult year for everyone, we speak to one retailer about the challenges, struggles and battles she has faced over the past year. Meet Jenny Carlisle, owner of Jean's Wool Shop in Northern Ireland
How has business been for you this year?
Thankfully, it has been pretty good – particularly over the summer months where the combination of poor weather and weak economy has seen many people reject costly, outdoor pursuits in favour of cheaper, home-based activities they can do indoors.
How has the current economic climate affected sales?
The credit crunch has actually helped business as people are staying in more, and rediscovering old hobbies like knitting and crochet. What's more, it isn't just budget yarns that are selling well, but also some of the higher-end, premium varieties too. Customers have generally become far more price-conscious and, rather than forking out on expensive purchases, they are choosing to create similar, but more individual, garments from scratch.
What have been your quietest and busiest periods?
July is traditionally considered a 'holiday' month here in Northern Ireland, meaning it is generally a very quiet time. However, this year, August was definitely our slowest. The busiest times are always October, November, January and February, as these are the days when the weather is cold and the mornings are dark, seeing people spend much greater lengths of time at home.
Do you think the recession is nearing its end?
Sadly, I can't say I do. While the recent reports in the media seem to be altogether less gloomy and the housing market looks like it's picking up, I think there are still a lot more redundancies and business closures yet to come.
How is the VAT rise this Christmas likely to affect your business?
It will involve a lot of unneccessary paperwork that I could certainly do without. As far as I can see, the practice has made absolutely no difference to yarn sales whatsoever. In fact, the little reductions we've had to make have been so minimal that very few people have even noticed they're there!
What are your expectations for this Christmas?
I think it will be good, after all, the festive season is traditionally a great time for the craft market, particularly nowadays when so many people are creating their own gifts. This year, customers seem to be moving away from gift vouchers and returnable items, and taking the time to produce their presents by hand – something which will inevitably benefit the sector.
What are your predictions for the year ahead?
I think 2010 will be a very good time for the craft industry, as recession hit times usually are. However, I think it's important for us not to become complacent or remain stagnant, but get out there and actively promote it as much as we can. After all, the more media, TV and press coverage we can bring to the sector, the better it will be for us all.
Thankfully, it has been pretty good – particularly over the summer months where the combination of poor weather and weak economy has seen many people reject costly, outdoor pursuits in favour of cheaper, home-based activities they can do indoors.
How has the current economic climate affected sales?
The credit crunch has actually helped business as people are staying in more, and rediscovering old hobbies like knitting and crochet. What's more, it isn't just budget yarns that are selling well, but also some of the higher-end, premium varieties too. Customers have generally become far more price-conscious and, rather than forking out on expensive purchases, they are choosing to create similar, but more individual, garments from scratch.
What have been your quietest and busiest periods?
July is traditionally considered a 'holiday' month here in Northern Ireland, meaning it is generally a very quiet time. However, this year, August was definitely our slowest. The busiest times are always October, November, January and February, as these are the days when the weather is cold and the mornings are dark, seeing people spend much greater lengths of time at home.
Do you think the recession is nearing its end?
Sadly, I can't say I do. While the recent reports in the media seem to be altogether less gloomy and the housing market looks like it's picking up, I think there are still a lot more redundancies and business closures yet to come.
How is the VAT rise this Christmas likely to affect your business?
It will involve a lot of unneccessary paperwork that I could certainly do without. As far as I can see, the practice has made absolutely no difference to yarn sales whatsoever. In fact, the little reductions we've had to make have been so minimal that very few people have even noticed they're there!
What are your expectations for this Christmas?
I think it will be good, after all, the festive season is traditionally a great time for the craft market, particularly nowadays when so many people are creating their own gifts. This year, customers seem to be moving away from gift vouchers and returnable items, and taking the time to produce their presents by hand – something which will inevitably benefit the sector.
What are your predictions for the year ahead?
I think 2010 will be a very good time for the craft industry, as recession hit times usually are. However, I think it's important for us not to become complacent or remain stagnant, but get out there and actively promote it as much as we can. After all, the more media, TV and press coverage we can bring to the sector, the better it will be for us all.
