I read in the Cambridge News to day that Fitzbilies had ceased trading in Cambridge http://bit.ly/h87ct8. I know this isn't an Ely company, but it is somewhat of an institution in Cambridge. The sad thing is this is real indication of how hard it is for independent traders. Fitzbilies was very well know and loved, bu with large Supermarket and Coffee shops opening all the time they have clearly seen their trade go down and down. How very sad fore the owner and the staff.
Reading some of the comments on the Cambridge News site like this one:
"Why do people always bang on about "local independent businesses" and "oh what a shame they are closing"! Erm as far as i know businesses close because they are not utilised...and they are not utilised because alternative stores offering superior products (in terms of cost or quality) are being preferred...that is how the world of industry works isn't it? Perhaps it's because a chelsea bum was about £3 a pop....i know they were good....but £3!!!!! Don't feel sorry for Fitzbillies...feel sorry for a lot of "independent" local suppliers of goods and services who have just been told they'll only be receiving 20p in every pound that they are owed, whilst the owner no doubt walks"
Norman Stanley Fletcher
This shows how some peope just don't get it. Without local independent shops, suppliers and businesses our Towns and Cities wilol become even more homogenised than they really are. The Country will lose out from all the small companies employing people and the revenue that produces. Smaller towns like Ely will become more dormitory than they are already, as there is not the population to attract the big shops etc... We really have to start supporting our local economy. We need to get out there and buy local.