Newquay: the place to find new ways of doing business

Newquay BID is just one of the organisations that is reviewing its plans and operations for the coming 12 weeks to remain flexible and agile in order to deliver its primary function of supporting local businesses.

Knowing that many businesses will be concerned about the impact that these unprecedented circumstances will have on their businesses and also the welfare of staff, both physically and financially, the website is being updated regularly with advice and information. Through liaison with Newquay Town Council, Cornwall Council, Visit Cornwall and other Cornish BIDs it is ensuring that the same up to date information is available to all as a collective voice is important in this current noisy landscape.

Carla Marie-Jones, Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) Manager said, “Despite the circumstances, what we have been seeing over the past few days in Newquay, is a prevailing business community spirit, creativity and positivity, which is truly admirable. Of course it is easier to feel more positive and draw on your reserves of resilience when you live and work in such inspiring surroundings. We can really feel proud of our independent business owners, hospitality and retail sectors and the supportive community that is around them.”

Carla continued, “However, day by day, advice and requirements are changing and many businesses have now had to temporarily close their doors. Just like everyone else, we are closely monitoring and watching the government’s guidance and where possible we will continually provide insights and advice. It is important to remember that we are all going through this together and the BID is here to offer continuous support throughout these times and at the same time is looking ahead to reschedule events and opportunities, for when we return to normal operations.”

Over the last few weeks the organisation has been impressed and encouraged by the actions and spirit demonstrated throughout the town in the face of these difficult times. 

Examples of this have included the actions of Sam Hunter, owner of Morris Pasties who has been out and about delivering pasties with no delivery charge, to those in self-isolation.  He explains, “As a business we wanted to stay connected to our customers and to still be there for them.  For those that normally enjoy a stroll around town and pick up their pastries and pasties, at least we can keep them fed.  It’s the little comforts that are important at a time like this so are not charging for our delivery service and have been out as far as Indian Queens and Mawgan Porth.”

Keen to do as much as possible to help everyone get through these unchartered waters the BID would like to know ways that they can practically support  businesses and the business community in general.  For example, if businesses are offering a delivery service or altered opening hours, then they would like to know if they can support that effort/message.  If businesses have literature that they wish to circulate to the wider community, or changes to their opening hours or operating plans, then Newquay BID can help share that info across all of its networks and platforms. There has never been a more vital time for us as a community to come together and collaborate as far as possible. Please send all content, queries and suggestions to [email protected]