August/September 2025
housewareslive.net
management for years, but it’s different when you own the business. Suddenly, you’re not just responsible for your job, you’re responsible for 25 people’s jobs, their mortgages, their families.” When the pair assumed control, Amy’s was already a smaller operation than in its heyday. At its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the business ran around 20 outlets, but over-expansion and the 2008 credit crunch had forced consolidation. By the time Mr Clark took over, Amy’s was trading from three stores: East Finchley, Swiss Cottage, and Palmers Green. The intention was to expand again, with plans to open two additional stores this year. But then came a succession of blows that reshaped the company’s direction. business rates, employer national insurance, and the increase in minimum wage, costs went up by £80,000 a year across three small shops. contributed to overall turnover, tipped into loss. “We hoped to close it and redeploy staff to new smaller-format shops, but the economy worsened, consumers cut back, and we lost our investor. We were hit three ways. In the end, we had to put expansion on hold and close our Palmer’s Green shop.” The closure was painful. “We’d been there for 10 years. Customers emailed us begging not to close. Some messages were angry, others heartfelt. The Manager and her team had built a real community around that shop.” That’s the thing about independent retail, it’s more than just a shop;
they create a real sense of community - adding more dimensions to the high street.
so they decorated, bought cookware, upgraded appliances,” says Mr Clark. “Now, people are looking after themselves. They’d rather go on day trips, to spas, or treat themselves personally. The home can wait.” This shift translates into delayed purchases. “Customers will say, ‘I need a new kettle, but it can wait until next month’. That caution is widespread, and other independents tell me the same.”
RETAILER SPOTLIGHT
Shifting consumer habits
Amy’s competes with online retail, where customers frequently check prices on their phones in-store. “Sometimes they see it cheaper online, but other times, convenience wins. People want it there and then. With online delivery charges creeping back, the high street has an opportunity.” roots. The East Finchley store, where Clark grew up, is affectionately called “Grandma’s favourite shop” by customers. It is also known for its personal touches, sponsoring local charities, giving out dog treats, and providing approachable service. “People feel more comfortable returning products to independents because we care,” Mr Clark explains. “We’re not going to sell
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