Uckfield Entrepreneurs
The unique “everything-for-pets shop” Paws n Claws came to Olive’s Yard 16 years ago, moving from Bell Walk in the old Marketplace, where it traded for five years. Paws n Claws has become a recognised market-leader, which its owner Justine Aldridge attributes to her reputation for giving sound dietary and health advice to pet-owners, including the specifics of what they buy. Reviews of her shop all mention her knowledge and advice, even before mentioning that her prices are the lowest in Uckfield. Try getting that impartial advisory service about pet products in a supermarket! Justine’s not a vet but she’s the next best thing and a lot cheaper. One useful tip: don’t buy supermarket own-brand pet food, as invariably it is poor quality and value for money.
Paws n Claws stayed robustly open throughout the lockdowns (it sold food, that’s why) but there was an unexpected bonus when she agreed to sell potted plants from Staverton’s which had to close for the duration. There were long queues of needy plant-lovers stretching from the shop right back to the High Street.
On the disruption caused by the extra traffic lights on the High Street, she thinks the Council should have communicated better throughout. There was no doubt about the damaging impact on most of Uckfield’s retail businesses. Justine’s turnover fell by 20% while the restrictions were in place. With the removal of the restrictions, she is now looking forward to recouping those losses.
But Uckfield High Street is already starting to show some gaps in its smile, so the removal of the government’s small business rate relief next year and the doubling of business rates will hit Uckfield entrepreneurs hard, and there could be more closures next year.
The answer, as ever, is down to customers. Do you want your High Street to survive? If so, close your Amazon page and take a walk at least twice a week up and down the street. You will have a better, healthier, and more varied experience than any online shopping. The parking is easy, close, and free. And anyway, what local gossip can you get when silently buying stuff from Temu?
You too can help to revive and restore the High Street’s brave and creative business enterprises. They need a break.
Make a start by popping into Olive’s Yard and asking Justine about the benefits of ostrich bones for your dog…