Professor Leigh Sparks

INTERNET shopping could take a higher-than-average share of the Jersey market, according to a specialist.

Island policy-makers might also do better if they developed a distinctive retail environment for Jersey, instead of following the UK high street, suggests Professor Leigh Sparks.

The academic, who was guest speaker at Wednesday’s Jersey Chamber of Commerce lunch, is professor of retail studies at Stirling University. Outlining general trends, he said that the recession was forcing town-centre shops to close as people had less disposable income and were being more careful with their money. As a result, retailers would have to work harder, he said. Shoppers were looking for things to make their lives easier, and healthier.

‘Consumers are looking for retailers who are on their side, helping them with lower prices and convenience, having the right products in stock. It is all about being better retailers,’ he said.
‘People are either doing it right, or are barely surviving.’