Located in Redfield, Church Road is one of Bristol's most diverse communities and home to brilliant pubs, international delis, independent toy shops and even a handmade Gambian jeweller. But to what extent has the ongoing economic situation and cost of living impacted traders at Church Road? We talked to seven traders to see how business is going and the impact the cost of living crisis and high energy bills have had. Here’s what we found:
1. Bristol Favours Little Treasures
At Bristol Favour Little Treasures, Jo shared: "It's been very quiet, footfall is down and takings are going down, too. But January, February and March are usually quiet for toy shops because everyone is toyed out after Christmas."
2. Born in Bristol
Lisa from Born in Bristol said: "To start with it was okay but over the last few months, people are spending less. It's not been too bad as yet but it has impacted us. People are not spending as much as they used to because they're worried about money, I guess."
3. Bristol Loaf
At Bristol Loaf, Maria said: "We've been trying to put things up stock-wise and trying to reduce waste a lot more. I think footfall has been quite consistent."
4. Red Flower Barrow
At the Red Flower Barrow, David said: "People are spending less and there are fewer customers. We are still getting the essential sales (birthdays, wedding anniversaries) but smaller sales like people buying a small bunch as a small treat or gift for their wife, have really gone down. Costs are higher - wages, transport and the cost of flowers have gone up - but there are fewer sales."