Coronavirus: Businesses in Portsmouth struggle with lack of trade after restrictions are brought in
WITH the Government’s advice to avoid unnecessary social situations, businesses which depend on them have taken a hit.
Several firms and self-employed individuals in the Portsmouth area have had to suspend all work after Boris Johnson has advised against social contact.
Emily and Sharon Mann, from Waterlooville, run Slimming World groups across the town on a self-employed basis.
But a recent announcement from the company’s CEO, Caryl Richards has put a complete stop to any group meetings.
Emily said: ‘We are gutted. It has a knock-on effect.’
The two have set up a Facebook group for their members to offer recipes, motivation and guidance online rather than at their in-person groups.
Sharon said: ‘We’re more than happy to keep our community going to deliver what they need, whether it’s magazines, something from the shop - we’ll help out where we can. We’ll be on there every day keeping them entertained.
‘It’s a nasty situation to be in, but if we can make a little bit of fun throughout the week we’ll come out of it better.’
Mark Gaizley runs personal training and massage business Fit U Fitness and said that his business had already taken a hit due to people wanting to avoid physical contact as well as gyms – before Friday's announcement that all gyms were to be closed.
He said: ‘Last week I had over 20 massages booked in and this week I have one. People are scared, it’s a hands-on job so people don’t want to be touched.
‘Also, with personal training, it’s not really essential and if people aren’t working they aren’t going to want to spend £100 a month on a personal trainer.’
Tint Hair Lounge in Emsworth is also suffering, with clients already cancelling appointments.
Owner Pete Gibbs said: ‘We're really worried as we're already having cancellations and it seems like it’s only going to get worse.
‘Our main concern is our team and clients' health and safety so we have been taking extra measures to ensure hygiene is our top priority, but sadly people just don’t want to leave their house.
‘Hopefully we will get through this.’