Entrepreneurs ‘thinking outside the box’ during new lockdown

TRADE will almost certainly take a hit during the ongoing national lockdown – but entrepreneurs are thinking outside the box to keep their businesses afloat.

While non-essential retail, leisure, hospitality and more will all be closed until at least February 15, following the prime minister’s announcement on Monday evening, business owners in Portsmouth and the surrounding area are doing everything they can to continue operating.

From moving to a delivery presence to operating via click and collect services, there are still options available for independent firms.

Arty’s at Clarence Marina, based in Gosport, has set up its own delivery service, and altered its menu to suit the influx of orders.

The restaurant has also set up a takeaway service for hot drinks.

Owner Julie Malec said: ‘The past year has been really tough for so many businesses.

‘It’s a very worrying time, but we have to make the best of it – the rent won't pay itself, after all.

‘But to do this you’ve got to think outside the box and come up with new ideas. We have no intention of closing so will do everything in our power to push forward, no matter how hard things get.’

Julie and the team are also planning to expand the restaurant, and already have the keys to the adjacent unit.

For other entrepreneurs, what was once a side hussle has now become their primary source of income. Alex Simkins, 32 from Clanfield, saw the salon she worked at close when the region entered tier four so relied on money from her catering service, Olive To Graze, which provides bespoke food hampers for events.

Partner Darren Millard, 33, is able to continue with his construction business, Millard Installations – but will have to change some of his work practices to be Covid-secure.

He said: ‘You have to be absolutely on it at the moment, and be able to think on your feet.

‘A lot of my work is done outside, but if I go into people’s homes I will use a mask and sanitiser, and ask if they can be in a different room while I work.’

See our Facebook page for more businesses that are adapting to the new lockdown.