Emsworth business owner left heartbroken after being forced to shut up shop
ITV News Meridian's Siri Hampapur has talked to business owners on Emsworth's high street, who are being forced to close their doors for good.
A businesswoman from the Hampshire - West Sussex border has been left heartbroken after being forced to close her shop for good because of rising costs.
Lisa Edgington, the owner of Emsworth-based PO10 Lifestyles and Interiors, sells handmade gifts made by local artists.
However, due to rising costs, declining footfall and customers cutting back on luxuries, she has had no choice but to close her shop.
She says she would need to sell 2,500 postcards every week, just for her business to survive.
Edgington said: "In the seven years we've been here we've had Covid thrown at us, we've had the energy crisis.
"I got to the point where I was working out that if I worked two days a week on minimum wage I would be earning more than what I was earning than what I'm doing now working five days a week, just keeping the shop going.
"If my heart wanted to continue this I think I will get myself into a debt situation which I will not put my family through."
In the shop, Lisa would support local artists, like Sue Mulchrone, and sell their products to help with their business.
Sue said: "This was a big part of my business and most of my sales were from this shop and it was really my bread and butter so it's really going to have a big impact and it's going to leave a big hole."
Sue Mulchrone on how PO10 Lifestyles and Interiors closing will affect her business.
Jonathan Rogers, owner of Vin Wine Merchants in Emsworth, is also being forced to close down because he believes customers' shopping habits are shifting.
He said: "I used to get customers who would spend quite happily £60-70 on a case of wine each month but now just maybe three or four bottles for £20-30.
"Those bulk sales have diminished somewhat because wine is a luxury and it's something that people can cut back on if they feel the need to and it makes my life harder certainly."
"People are finding it hard just to make ends meet so they're looking for cheaper options and central high streets will just become deserted, so what happens next?"
A government spokesperson said: 'We are focused on working with banks to create opportunities for small businesses to access the finance they need to scale, export and break into new markets.
"We have also provided business rates relief and are protecting the smallest businesses from the employer National Insurance increases.'
Havant Borough Council said: "We recognise the value of local businesses and strives to support the borough to thrive economically and are saddened to hear of a local business closing its doors.
"With a dedicated Economic Development team, we support the borough's businesses within the resources at our disposal.
"The Emsworth high street offer is cherished and respected, as are all high streets in the borough."
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