'Rollercoaster' for Harrogate town centre traders as business fears refuse to ease

The Harrogate Advertiser spoke to the owners of an award-winning cafe which reports on both "heartwarming" support but not enough footfall yet to stop business being "precarious."

Phil and Helen Dolby took over Bean & Bud coffee shop on Commercial Street in Harrogate in early 2019.

In line with Government guidance, they reopened nearly a fortnight ago.

They say it’s been a “bit of a rollercoaster” since then - despite brilliant support from their regular customers.

Phil Dolby said: “I would say that so far it's been a bit of a rollercoaster. It's probably still a bit too early to say what the level of trade is going to be.

"We've had good days (better than expectations) and a few quiet days. We certainly aren't back to pre-lockdown levels of trade, and business does still feel quite precarious.

"The furlough scheme is working well, as it allows us to send staff home if they are not needed, and without it we would not be able to meet their wages on current turnover.

"Whether we will ever get back to being able to fulfil all contracted staff hours is debatable at present.

"We have a very loyal group of regulars who have made up the majority of the returning trade, and we rely on them to keep us going during these times. The enthusiasm for what we do has been very noticeable - and heartwarming - people have really missed us, and have missed really good coffee.

"Certainly we are missing some of the visiting trade we would expect at this time of year - no conference centre business and fewer tourists.

"We've definitely noticed some apprehension amongst the wide spectrum of customers we have - some people are still very nervous about being out and about.

"Most of our customers are being very sensible, however, and are following the new regulations.

"We have taken a 'safe but sensible' approach to reopening at Bean & Bud; we are COVID secure (sanitiser, screen at till point and lots of space between tables), and our staff are wearing face visors when waiting tables.

"We feel this is the right approach, helps to create a relaxed atmosphere in the shop. We are also operating a walk-in service, so no need to book tables in advance.

"Given a choice we'd say that most people are choosing to sit outside - and it's been a bonus that the council has allowed us to use some pavement space - so we have plenty of outside seating."

New independent shop to open in Harrogate showing positive spirit in challenging times

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