Traders in Ilkeston are being asked to support a trial period of
staying open longer on Wednesdays to boost business.
For decades many shops in the town have traditionally closed
early on Wednesdays, often at lunchtime.
But some traders and enterprise agency Erewash Partnership
believe that with changing shopping trends local shops could be
losing custom at time when businesses may be struggling because of
the harsh economic climate.
"Shoppers' needs must come first, and with more and more people
turning to the internet shops must remain open for as long as
possible, providing good personal, customer service," said market
towns co-ordinator Paul Calladine.
There are also fears that shoppers could switch their habits
from a town centre which is mainly closed on Wednesday afternoons
to other towns nearby and out-of-town retail parks, threatening the
viability of Ilkeston.
So the Partnership, which helps regenerate the borough, is
urging traders, particularly those in the town centre, to support a
trial run of opening all day on Wednesdays from December 7 until
the end of January.
It is backing the trial with a free promotional package to help
businesses and shoppers. This includes lists of open shops on both
the Ilkeston town centre website and the Partnership's website, and
free posters for shop windows.
Letters detailing this support and offers of help from other
organisations have been sent to retailers.
Councillor Geoff Smith, council lead member for planning and
regeneration, said: "This is a bold initiative designed to meet the
needs of modern shopping trends.
"It could benefit traders - particularly in the busy time of the
festive season and sales - and shoppers alike, and help keep
Ilkeston as a thriving, competitive and sustainable retail centre.
I hope all will support it."
Ilkeston Chamber of Trade and Commerce is supporting the move.
Chairman Sharon Flint said: "Any incentive to boost the economy of
the town is welcomed by our members. We appreciate the
Partnership's offers to promote the trial."