Small businesses encouraged 'to speak out'

'You are not alone' says the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce.

The reassurance comes after the Chamber launched a new initiative to support small businesses this week.

Chamber's Local Economy Forum brings together customer facing businesses in hospitality and retail to increase communication and "build resilience" within the sector.

The forum provides a way for small business owners to share best practice, test new ideas, collaborate and learn, and to share their issues with Government. 

Andy Corrie, Chair of the new Forum, said: "The High Street and consumer behaviour is undergoing massive transformation through Covid, growth of online selling and changing consumer preferences and habits. 

"What we knew as shops are no longer the only driver of retail spend with health, fitness, hair, beauty, pet, medical, education and others just emerging, all growing fast in the retail services arena. 

"Events over the past year or so have had a particularly significant impact on the hospitality sector, especially cafes, pubs and restaurants". 

If you'd like to get involved, you can find out more here.