Supermarkets to receive recommendations

As the 'Voice of Business' we hope that all who attended found that the meeting provided a suitable, business orientated environment for questions to be raised and answered. We appreciated the attendance of those who are not members of the Chamber, and hope that it is clear that the Chamber is trying to act on the behalf of all of our local businesses.

The meeting provided us with a clear understanding of the perceived impact of both of the proposals. The Sainsbury's proposal was felt to be a real threat to the High Street and particularly unwelcome. The Waitrose proposal appeared to present less of a perceived threat and generally was thought to be more supportive of the High Street businesses.

We will be making our recommendations to both Waitrose and Sainsbury's to address the specific concerns raised and should any changes to either proposal become evident, we will provide updates and seek opinion on those changes.

Based on this and as we are determined to protect and develop an active and vibrant High Street, we will also reflect these views on both proposals via local planning policy and any other appropriate means.

The Chamber is here to support and protect all businesses in the area, and will endeavour to support those businesses, both on any plans for development, initiatives to increase trade to Malmesbury businesses, such as Late Night Shopping and the Business Fairs we have planned for 2012.

However, our resources are stretched by any campaign and if we are to really represent Malmesbury business, we need more members to strengthen our voice, particularly from the town centre.

The annual membership subscription is only £65 exc. VAT and a membership form is to be sent out shortly to all non-member town centre retailers.