Good service, Statland | We have to pay a high price if the local shops disappear

We have laid Easter behind us. Now we are gradually looking forward to the “long, bright nights”. I am the general manager of a small convenience store – Matkroken Statland. We meet local people and visitors/holidays throughout the year – and we feel that it is appreciated that we offer “daily bread”, and then some.

I am still concerned about the development for small shops. We are in the upper echelon in terms of price, and it is understandable that we have little chance of competing with Coop Extra, REMA and OBS.

It is recorded that stores are closing down around the country, and it is always about a lack of earnings. The local shop loses out in competition with the big ones. Often it’s about where people work – if you’re in the center on your way home and want to shop for the weekend, you pop into the “supermarket” rather than shopping locally. The price in the shopping basket indicates that it is worth it.

What arguments have we then in relation to using the local shop? Perhaps it is difficult to keep the ice cold enough on the trip from the center and home. But no problem – they have ice cream and cream at the convenience store; we buy that at home – just like the Saturday newspaper and the tobacco – there the competition in terms of price is insignificant. So don’t say we don’t shop local. But does it maintain the shop in the village?

Why do I write? this? What am I interested in? Yes – I am concerned that the village should live! I am of the opinion that a vibrant local community should have service offerings that enable us to find the essential things in the local environment. We must have a school and nursery, the opportunity for people to stay at home for as long as possible, and we must be able to buy groceries locally!

The price of the shopping cart may be somewhat higher, but – for those who travel into the center only to shop for food… How much does it cost round trip? Fuel, car use included? Maybe have a coffee with something to eat – or dinner for two?

I certainly pray not “for my sick mother” – but I see what shops and local services mean to a village! Among other things, tourism depends on there being local offers on several levels; including available groceries – and perhaps the tourism industry should know its visiting hours in this respect.

The municipality can i additionally need local support points; information regarding i.a. tourism, health; mentions i.a. distribution of corona tests when applicable, as well as service locally in relation to elderly people living at home with special needs, local library department. Here, the local shop can be a resource.

I’m off the belief that all local communities deserve a thriving shop, with the services we can offer. At the same time, it is up to the people themselves to ensure that offers are used.

I have big respect for my customers; permanent residents and holidaymakers, and have faith that our village will live – with a local shop! I hope other local communities have the same faith – then maybe things will go the right way!