A Lancashire retailer has told the county to support its local shops this Christmas or risk losing them.
Peter Jackson, the founder of a chain of jewellers which has branches across the North West, said the run-up crucial festive trading period had been “challenging” for all retaailers and urged local people to support traders.
He said the high street risked losing a number of household names if shoppers deserted them for online shopping this Christmas.
It is predicted £4.6bn will be spent online during the first two weeks of December, up from £3.7bn in the same period last year.
Mr jackson said: “Christmas is vital for all retailer and I think anyone who cares about their high street should make a commitment top shopping local.
“Obviously, it is then up to us retailers to make sure we give the best service and the best products at the best value we can.
“Up and down the country, there are empty shops on the high street and it is the public which hold the key to that.”
Last week, Mr Jackson received an MBE for his services to charity during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace last week.
He has been a prolific fund-raiser for a number of charities including the Prince’s Trust and the Derian House children’s hospice in Chorley.
The entrepreneur said: “I have been very lucky to be in a position to help these organisations which would not exist without the genorosity of the general public.
“I cannot even bear to think what would happen without organisations like Derian House and the Prince’s Trust they make such a big difference to people’s lives.
“It has been my privilege to support them and it was an honour to receive an MBE for doing something so dear to my heart.”
Peter Jackson Jewellers has its flagship store in the St George’s Shopping Centre, Preston.
Comments