Do we really need more megastores ? Is their really any net gain in jobs if it puts independent retailers out of business?
Island Aquatics Pet Store based just over the road at Eden Park is likely to be one of the shops directly hit by this off island completion. This is an exceptional shop run by Nigel Thijs and Paula Wadsworth. This dedicated and hard working couple have put their hearts and souls into establishing this business. Their strength is a true love of animals and concern for their wellbeing. Their wealth of knowledge on keeping fish, reptiles and other small animals is appreciated by their customers to the extent that they won thebestof The Isle of Man Exceptional Customer Service Award 2009 and was recently voted the most loved business in the Isle of Man in a bestof online survey. In fact the same survey which was conducted across the UK showed them as the 2nd most loved pet shop in the whole of the UK.
This is a gem of a business – the sort that the island should be setting up as an example to others. Customer service is of prime importance to Nigel and Paula – something that the island is accused of lacking skills in. Let’s hope that their customers continue to be loyal to them. I do hope so – they deserve it.