Andy Massey, family member of a 77-year-old DIY business in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, emphasises the critical role that supporting independent shops plays in protecting local jobs and bolstering the local economy. His great-grandfather, Reg Massey, founded the business by dispensing paint into treacle tins retrieved from the dustbin men, and it has since grown into Masseys DIY, a large 30,000 sq/ft community cornerstone.
The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses
As Independents’ Day UK approaches on the weekend of July 6th and 7th, Andy Massey stresses the significance of supporting local shops:
"We are part of this community; we live and work here. Our 35 staff members are local residents, so when you support us, you're supporting local families and our local economy. We pay our share of UK taxes and business rates, unlike some multinationals that benefit from unfair tax advantages and government grants. Supporting independent shops like ours ensures that local jobs stay local, and our community thrives."
Embracing the Company’s Rich History
Andy also highlights the value of the company’s long history:
“Having a long history as a business is wonderful. Being well-established has made us a recognised brand locally. While the older generation is familiar with our store, it’s exciting to share our rich history with newer residents in the area. It helps connect them to the community and to us.”
Competing with Big Chains and Online Retailers
Despite the challenges posed by large chains and online retailers, Andy is confident in Masseys DIY’s competitive edge:
"I have no issues competing with large chains on price. They might have brand recognition and promote hundreds of products out of the 26,000 lines we stock, but we can stay competitive as they also have significant overhead costs. The real challenge comes from online sites operating with minimal margins and low overheads. For us, fair pricing is crucial. We’re not the cheapest, nor do we aim to be. When you visit our store, you can see, touch, and feel the products, and get personalised assistance from our knowledgeable staff. We offer a comprehensive service and expertise that adds value. Competing isn’t just about price; it’s about the overall experience. With us, you get immediate access to products and personalised service, which is a strong competitive advantage."
Masseys DIY is also a proud, long-time member of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira). Andy Massey values this affiliation:
"We are proud to be long-standing members of the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA). Being part of BIRA gives us a collective voice and representation alongside many other independent retailers. It provides us with valuable resources, support, and a sense of community. BIRA helps us stay informed about industry trends and changes, and it advocates on our behalf to ensure fair treatment in the marketplace. This support is crucial in helping us navigate challenges and continue to thrive as a local business. We're grateful for the solidarity and the strength that comes from being part of such a dedicated organisation."
Supporting independent shops like Masseys DIY not only preserves local jobs but also strengthens the community and economy, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for local businesses.
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