ECONOMY AND LOCAL BUSINESS
Where are we now?
In 2022 I highlighted the need to diversify Jersey’s economy, support small businesses, and reduce bureaucracy. The pressures on town centre retail have intensified since then empty shops, rising costs, and competition from online shopping are real challenges that affect the daily life and feel of St Helier.
What I will continue to push for as your Constable and States Member:
A strong economy must work for everyone not just the finance sector. I will continue to support economic diversification, back our digital and creative industries, and push for red tape reduction so that self-employed people and small businesses can start and grow more easily.
As Constable, I will work to make St Helier a place businesses want to invest in.
That means implementing the Retail Roadmap, supporting independent traders, working towards filling empty shops, and reducing the bureaucracy around events, markets and temporary licences. A vibrant town centre is good for residents and businesses alike.
Community Wealth Building matters too supporting local businesses, local jobs and local produce so more of Jersey’s success stays in Jersey.
Small Businesses
Small businesses contribute to the diversified economy of Jersey and there should more encouragement on entrepreneurial attitudes.
I propose that more publicity is given to the already available assistance for new businesses in Jersey.
As a small business owner and a professional management consultant myself, I would support creating training programmes for the younger generation to encourage them to take interest in self employed options for their future.
Retail
The high street and retail sector in particular are suffering from the burden of high rents and the increased competition from online shopping.
I will encourage and support the retail sector in Jersey through regeneration of the main and secondary retail areas, and assist the Town Centre Manager in making St.Helier a welcoming shopping area.
Tourism
I have many years experience working in the tourism sector in Jersey and have been bringing non-English speaking tourists to the island for over 9 years. I believe my knowledge and experience of the tourism industry can help to increase the number of tourists to Jersey, which will benefit our economy.
Self Employment
There is a huge jump to be taken when moving from being an employee to becoming self-employed.
I propose that people wanting to become self employed have greater assistance from government departments. I will cut the red tape, and create a simple procedure for registering with all the necessary departments and getting the permissions and permits to run a small business in Jersey.
I will create an environment where the ‘Mompreneurs’ will find it easier to start new ventures and contribute to the economy from home.
I will work to create an environment where it is easier and less financially dangerous to take the risk of becoming self employed, or opening a small business.