Amanda Alexander from Giddy Goat Toys shares her views on the third lockdown and her hopes for the next few months.
A Manchester-based independent toy retailer has told PreschoolNews.net that she hopes consumers realise that they need to support their local shops in what is going to be a “hell of a tough year” for retailers.
Amanda Alexander from Giddy Goat Toys said that although her shop was closed for all of November, she sells online via her own website and through Down Your High Street and OnBuy. She also offers online delivery and click and collect.
“I’m also in a supportive community who put in click and collect orders, so Q4 was still good for us,” Amanda commented.
With the third lockdown continuing in England, Amanda said that she was more prepared this time round, due to having more stock online.
“However, during lockdown 1 the schools weren’t prepared, so we were selling lots of craft things and educational games online and lockdown 2 was just before Christmas so was busy,” she continued. “Schools are more prepared now, so I’m not expecting the high levels of sales we had last spring. Nevertheless parents will want to buy new games to help keep their children entertained, as well as little treats to get them through it, so business wise I think we’ll tick over.”
Talking about her hopes for the next few weeks and months, business-wise, Amanda hopes that shoppers don’t just resort to the likes of Amazon and supermarkets for their extras such as toys, homeware and clothes, while smaller shops are closed.
“So many shops are struggling and many of them have their own websites or are part of marketplace sites like Down Your High Street and OnBuy,” she offered. “It’s going to be a hell of a tough year for retailers, so I’m hoping consumers realise that if they don’t make an effort to support their local shops, they won’t be there by the end of the year.”
