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‘It’s a battle for the soul of Reading’ - sum’s up this beautiful and thoughtful post & ‘the chains are going to do their best to kill independent businesses right out of the blocks’ - This is so on point and applies to every town in every country out there. Do share. #rdguk https://twitter.com/EdibleReading/status/1278999878480338944">https://twitter.com/EdibleRea...
Some rambling thoughts. This may stir up some controversy but don’t think every Indie business deserves to survive this. Its not fair on customers to keep us alive just with sympathy. Its totally on us to keep giving the best so you have no choice but to come to us.
The only thing we independents dare ask is , before spending your precious money pause for a second and see if there is any Independent business in your town doing it and more importantly, doing it much better.
I personally know most of the indie businesses in town and know how passionate and hardworking they are and how much of an ethical business they run. For every cup of coffee you need, or a burger, a pizza or a great meal or beer, there are way better options than big chains.
While asking all of you to do this , I am also well aware that just because we are an independent doesn’t mean we automatically deserve your sympathies or affections. Definitely not if we keep dishing out mediocre products or if we are conducting our businesses dishonestly.
Time’s are tough. lots of new rules. Your favourite restaurant may not be able to give out the same service like before. Thats understandable. But the basic foundation for any restaurant is good food. And if we mess that up, food critics should be allowed to point it out.
I know every restaurant may have a bad day especially now with shortage of staff. But may be a food critic should visit the restaurant twice and then do the review rather than not doing any at all.
As an independent restaurant and a customer who visits lots of other Indies , I am saying we should be given a second chance because of the circumstances but never a free ride. Customers have a right to be informed which businesses deserve their well earned money.
Most importantly, lots of places are opening today. Good luck to them all. Please follow their house rules and don’t make it extra hard for the staff. They are doing their best within the limitations to make your visit enjoyable. Help them keep themselves,their staff and you safe
Also, there are quite a few businesses who cannot open today because of the space restrictions they have or other safety reasons. Please don’t forget them. Most of them are going to continue doing takeaways and deliveries for you to enjoy in the safety of your homes.