I banned tourists from my shop - and profits are up 30% (From Thisisdorset)
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No tourists: It's a local shop for local people, Christchurch shop owner says
8:39am Thursday 21st March 2013 in Latest By Melanie Vass
The sign in the window at Aladdin's Cave
A CHRISTCHURCH shop owner has banned tourists from entering his store – and claims profits have soared by 30 per cent.
Mark Galpin, who owns Christchurch Traders in the High Street, has angered councillors, tourist chiefs and other traders with his controversial “locals only” policy.
But he says he was being inundated with coach loads of tourists who were only looking to kill time.
He started turning away tourists a month ago and has seen a 90 per cent drop in footfall at the shop, which sells furniture and ornaments and is also known as Aladdin’s Cave.
But he claims sales have increased by nearly a third and many genuine customers have welcomed the move.
He now intends to alter his policy to allow admittance to any tourist willing to donate £1 to charity. The pound will then be refunded from any purchase they make.
“We have made a decision that this business should be a local business for local people,” he said. “We have a coach drop-off and pick-up point immediately opposite us and we can have five to six hundred coach passengers a day coming in and buying absolutely nothing.
“We have put up with it for three years and we believe that maybe one in every 2,500 tourists has spent a pound or two. The rest have spent nothing.
“We have really tried to cater for tourists by selling small trinkets and ornaments for a few pounds but they are not interested in buying.
“We’ve also had at least 45 to 50 local residents tell us they avoid coming in our shop when it’s busy. It was having a huge detrimental impact on our business so we decided to make it a local business for local people.
“We are an independent retailer, we pay extremely high rents and rates for being in the high street. We think that giving tourists an option of coming in if they pay a pound to an extremely worthwhile charity is the right thing to do.”
But Christchurch councillor Nicholas Geary said Mr Galpin’s policy risked damaging Christchurch’s reputation. His wife Gillian, also a councillor, was contacted by an upset tourist who had been asked to leave the shop. She visited the shop herself, pretending to be on holiday, and received the same treatment.
“It’s not doing any good for Christchurch whatsoever,” he said. “We’re working very hard to encourage people to come into our town and spend money and this attitude does us no good at all.”
Shopper Anthony Nichols, who was asked to leave the shop after admitting he was not a local resident, said he was left “speechless” by Mr Galpin’s attitude.
“He said that before I could come in, I had to read this sign which said that tourists were banned. At first I thought he was joking,” he said.
“We were actually looking for a piece of furniture on behalf of a Christchurch-based relative but I didn’t see why I should explain that to him.
“We had had a lovely time in Christchurch but that’s not what I will be taking away with me. This has ruined that. I cannot understand how he is allowed to act like this.”
Peter Watson-Lee, chair of the Christchurch Chamber of Trade, said: “This is like a depressing nightmare. We are working hard to get people to come to the town and it’s just so depressing that we have got one eccentric trader taking this stance.
“I’ve had a whole series of complaints from people but he won’t listen. It’s totally contrary to everything that the traders stand for. Tourists bring a lot of money into the town, he’s in the wrong town if he doesn’t want to welcome them.”
Matti Raudsepp, head of leisure and open spaces at the Christchurch and East Dorset partnership, said: “This is a very unusual occurrence.
"We would like to reassure tourists that they are more than welcome to come to Christchurch and I am confident that every other business in the town will be more than happy for tourists to visit their premises.”
Comments(141)
skydriver
says...
8:48am Thu 21 Mar 13
Now there is another question!!!Why is that allowed to happed???
MngsMnr
says...
8:51am Thu 21 Mar 13
suzigirl
says...
8:53am Thu 21 Mar 13
awsokend
says...
8:54am Thu 21 Mar 13
but i can see where hes going
this has got to be best article ever
The Liberal
says...
8:59am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bonkeydollocks
says...
9:04am Thu 21 Mar 13
Golf girl
says...
9:08am Thu 21 Mar 13
Old Colonial
says...
9:10am Thu 21 Mar 13
retry69
says...
9:16am Thu 21 Mar 13
bmthlad69
says...
9:24am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bonkeydollocks wrote:Its not that clever because its put me off going in there. It sounds like the bloke has a serious attitude problem.
Its a clever bit of reverse psychology IMHO - and the Echo is giving free publicity. Very clever by the shop owner!
He must be mad, he gets 100's of tourists in his shop yet he bans them. Why doesn't he sell stuff the tourist want? instead of the unwanted rubbish.
I can't see this news report helping him in any way.
What an idiot!!
hadvar
says...
9:25am Thu 21 Mar 13
allmy life
says...
9:26am Thu 21 Mar 13
Glashen
says...
9:37am Thu 21 Mar 13
MngsMnr wrote:Not true, he must trade in a way that is not discriminatory on the grounds of sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. Given the make up of Christchurch I suspect his policy might fall foul of that.
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
9:37am Thu 21 Mar 13
Something doesn't quite add up here.
uvox44
says...
9:40am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
9:40am Thu 21 Mar 13
No blacks?
Men only?
And profits are up? Hold on tourist season hasn't even started yet, and with the weather like it is.
Figure of speech... I smell a rat.
The Seasider
says...
9:46am Thu 21 Mar 13
This is a local shop for local people!
"NO GROCKLES!".
Lord Spring
says...
9:47am Thu 21 Mar 13
s-pb2 wrote:Or Sybil
He hasnt got a wife called Tubbs has he? Beware the son upstairs!
Get John Cleese down there quick he could make another series of programmes.
knightbanneret
says...
9:49am Thu 21 Mar 13
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
scrumpyjack
says...
9:50am Thu 21 Mar 13
Those knocking him, who are you to tell him what to do?
It's got nothing to do with you. (Or me).
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
9:54am Thu 21 Mar 13
scrumpyjack
says...
10:02am Thu 21 Mar 13
knightbanneret wrote:Just because you don't like him you think we should all be calling for a ban/fine or whatever you expect from Trading Standards?
From first hand experience I can testify that this guy is toxic. Ask yourself how he knows which people are tourists? He doesn't - not surprising as he is very opinionated and judgemental - he just chooses to offend you based on what you look like. Makes you wonder what other character traits he has, doesn't it?
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
And you have the cheek to call him 'opinionated and judgemental'!
Ah the irony.
retry69
says...
10:07am Thu 21 Mar 13
knightbanneret wrote:Pot and kettle spring to mind.
From first hand experience I can testify that this guy is toxic. Ask yourself how he knows which people are tourists? He doesn't - not surprising as he is very opinionated and judgemental - he just chooses to offend you based on what you look like. Makes you wonder what other character traits he has, doesn't it?
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
In Absentia
says...
10:11am Thu 21 Mar 13
dvdr
says...
10:19am Thu 21 Mar 13
I remember a similar shop (in this case an antique shop) in Crewkerne, where the owner began to charge £1 to enter and look around. The shop went bust soon afterwards. No surprises there!
BmthNewshound
says...
10:20am Thu 21 Mar 13
.
Why on earth would coach loads of tourists want to visit such an awful shop ? Is this really a story to get some free publicity to promote a struggling retailer ?
auntsally
says...
10:21am Thu 21 Mar 13
radical
says...
10:25am Thu 21 Mar 13
.
I think you'll find that the attitude of one shop owner will do no damage to Christchurch, on the other hand Christchurch councils decisions on extortionate parking charges and the use of over zealous parking attendants will and has done more damage than enough.
rozmister
says...
10:27am Thu 21 Mar 13
knightbanneret wrote:Actually shops like this are pretty common across the country, especially in rural areas. They do have their 'place' rightly or wrongly.
From first hand experience I can testify that this guy is toxic. Ask yourself how he knows which people are tourists? He doesn't - not surprising as he is very opinionated and judgemental - he just chooses to offend you based on what you look like. Makes you wonder what other character traits he has, doesn't it?
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
For years shops haven't let more than 2 children in at once - why is that an acceptable policy but banning tourists not? The children trying to steal penny sweets waste the sweet shop owner's time just as much as the tourists with no intention to buy anything wasn't the furniture shop owner's time.
Why does it bother you so much? If this guy is as toxic, judgemental and opinionated as you say his business will sink in no time. You don't need to waste your time planning to call trading standards and making a big fuss.
It's his shop and it's his choice who he lets in. If you don't like it shop somewhere else.
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:30am Thu 21 Mar 13
As a local resident, whenever I have friends and family come visit from across the country, indeed, the world, I always recommend they/we go visit Christchurch. Such a lovely, beautiful, quaint, historical, peaceful, SAFE place. On par with Lulworth Cove, Stair Hole/Durdle Door. One of the many "must see" places here on the south coast.
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:31am Thu 21 Mar 13
social-poet
says...
10:33am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:34am Thu 21 Mar 13
rozmister wrote:Because letting in more than 2 school children presents a shoplifting risk. Please dont compare the 2.
knightbanneret wrote:Actually shops like this are pretty common across the country, especially in rural areas. They do have their 'place' rightly or wrongly.
From first hand experience I can testify that this guy is toxic. Ask yourself how he knows which people are tourists? He doesn't - not surprising as he is very opinionated and judgemental - he just chooses to offend you based on what you look like. Makes you wonder what other character traits he has, doesn't it?
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
For years shops haven't let more than 2 children in at once - why is that an acceptable policy but banning tourists not? The children trying to steal penny sweets waste the sweet shop owner's time just as much as the tourists with no intention to buy anything wasn't the furniture shop owner's time.
Why does it bother you so much? If this guy is as toxic, judgemental and opinionated as you say his business will sink in no time. You don't need to waste your time planning to call trading standards and making a big fuss.
It's his shop and it's his choice who he lets in. If you don't like it shop somewhere else.
speedy231278
says...
10:35am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:36am Thu 21 Mar 13
speedy231278 wrote:Not a stupid question at all brother
Stupid question, but how many tourists are going to buy furniture?
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:39am Thu 21 Mar 13
ben111
says...
10:39am Thu 21 Mar 13
hadvar
says...
10:45am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes wrote:'my man'? Oh dear.
Respect Sam, I understand your position here, thank you for leaving some of my more prominent comments in tact. But why the no travellers v no tourist comment. That should have stayed put too my man.
dylexic bobert
says...
10:45am Thu 21 Mar 13
All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.
hadvar
says...
10:49am Thu 21 Mar 13
dylexic bobert wrote:'All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.'
Good on him.A true legend.Could do with him down at the ports working for HM customs. He should be made the face of the UK to keep the illegals in line.
All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.
I agree, before passing judgement on others, walk a mile in their shoes. Then, in the event that you don't like them, you are a mile away, and you have their shoes.
PokesdownMark
says...
10:51am Thu 21 Mar 13
If he had adapted his product to match his customers needs he could be retired and relaxing on a beach in a tropical climate?!
Assuming it is true.
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
10:55am Thu 21 Mar 13
dylexic bobert wrote:Since when are tourists from London and elsewhere visiting the south coast of England in their own country as tourists in the same category as illegal immigrants from say, Eastern Europe??
Good on him.A true legend.Could do with him down at the ports working for HM customs. He should be made the face of the UK to keep the illegals in line.
All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.
simcal
says...
10:58am Thu 21 Mar 13
MngsMnr
says...
11:07am Thu 21 Mar 13
Glashen wrote:I don't think "tourist" falls into any of those categories. Had he defined the word with adjectives such as female or yellow etc then you would be right.
MngsMnr wrote:Not true, he must trade in a way that is not discriminatory on the grounds of sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. Given the make up of Christchurch I suspect his policy might fall foul of that.
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
11:07am Thu 21 Mar 13
simcal wrote:It's my Twitter account, I can say what I want. Even if that means some things I say on there can get me arrested. Get my drift?
It's his shop, his business. If he calls it wrong he goes bust. Just let him get on with it.
Disclaimer: I don't have a Twitter account
s-pb2
says...
11:11am Thu 21 Mar 13
s-pb2
says...
11:13am Thu 21 Mar 13
rozmister
says...
11:17am Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes wrote:Because school children are the only group of people that shoplift? I never shoplifted as a school kid and neither did most of my friends. Surely just like these tourists we could have claimed we were unfairly victimised based on a few?
rozmister wrote:Because letting in more than 2 school children presents a shoplifting risk. Please dont compare the 2.
knightbanneret wrote:Actually shops like this are pretty common across the country, especially in rural areas. They do have their 'place' rightly or wrongly.
From first hand experience I can testify that this guy is toxic. Ask yourself how he knows which people are tourists? He doesn't - not surprising as he is very opinionated and judgemental - he just chooses to offend you based on what you look like. Makes you wonder what other character traits he has, doesn't it?
Shops like this have no place anywhere, let alone Christchurch (well, maybe Royston Vasey).
At least the council have forced him to take all the tat off the front of his shop. Oh, and I think he also had to lose the sign saying 'browsers welcome' or similar. If he didnt perhaps someone should call trading standards.
For years shops haven't let more than 2 children in at once - why is that an acceptable policy but banning tourists not? The children trying to steal penny sweets waste the sweet shop owner's time just as much as the tourists with no intention to buy anything wasn't the furniture shop owner's time.
Why does it bother you so much? If this guy is as toxic, judgemental and opinionated as you say his business will sink in no time. You don't need to waste your time planning to call trading standards and making a big fuss.
It's his shop and it's his choice who he lets in. If you don't like it shop somewhere else.
static kill
says...
11:23am Thu 21 Mar 13
Glashen wrote:But he's not discriminating on those grounds. A tourist can be of any sex, age, ethnicity etc.
MngsMnr wrote:Not true, he must trade in a way that is not discriminatory on the grounds of sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. Given the make up of Christchurch I suspect his policy might fall foul of that.
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
Of course it might sound less offensive if he simply had a sign saying "no time wasters", but that might put people off who are genuinely interested but don't want to feel obligated to buy something.
If 90% of his footfall is people who have no intention of buying anything, he is likely to miss the opportunity to try to help genuine potential customers.
Lord Spring
says...
11:28am Thu 21 Mar 13
Is IoW deliveries within his 30 mile radius, I bet I know the answer to that one.
scrumpyjack
says...
11:30am Thu 21 Mar 13
hadvar wrote:pml
dylexic bobert wrote:'All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.'
Good on him.A true legend.Could do with him down at the ports working for HM customs. He should be made the face of the UK to keep the illegals in line.
All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.
I agree, before passing judgement on others, walk a mile in their shoes. Then, in the event that you don't like them, you are a mile away, and you have their shoes.
Love that.
Mr N James
says...
12:55pm Thu 21 Mar 13
BOSC_Milly
says...
12:57pm Thu 21 Mar 13
auntsally wrote:What is good for Christchurch is new businesses opening on the High Street - we hardly have any empty units, most of which have an entirely different attitude to this guy! It is a town that relies on tourists as well as locals after all!
I think this is a bad for Christchurch and I will not set foot in his shop ever again while he has that sign up Just a small question how does he know who lives in Christchurch and who is a "tourist" what does he mean by that ?
mikey2gorgeous
says...
12:57pm Thu 21 Mar 13
simcal
says...
1:08pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes wrote:Don't big yourself up! I didn't aim my comment at you. As for your twitter account I don't believe anyone wouyld be so sad as to follow you.
simcal wrote:It's my Twitter account, I can say what I want. Even if that means some things I say on there can get me arrested. Get my drift?
It's his shop, his business. If he calls it wrong he goes bust. Just let him get on with it.
Disclaimer: I don't have a Twitter account
kingstonpaul
says...
1:17pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Mind you, the guy does sound bonkers, and as others have noted, if he sold stuff tourists actually wanted to buy, he might not have made an a*se of himself all over the front pages of the Echo.
dylexic bobert
says...
1:32pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes wrote:Eastern Europe! I didn't mention Eastern Europe.They are entitled to enter this country I believe! This is obviously your own prejudices once again flaring up.
dylexic bobert wrote: Good on him.A true legend.Could do with him down at the ports working for HM customs. He should be made the face of the UK to keep the illegals in line. All the haters of this guy should maybe spend a day in his shoes before being so judgmental.Since when are tourists from London and elsewhere visiting the south coast of England in their own country as tourists in the same category as illegal immigrants from say, Eastern Europe??
If you look out your window right now you'll see a coach with 50 indian pensioners wishing to enter the place you pay for.They would like to look at your house and possibly buy some dusty ornaments!
justanoldie
says...
1:37pm Thu 21 Mar 13
mavis.knows.best
says...
1:40pm Thu 21 Mar 13
This shop is a refreshing change, offering quality furniture at very reasonable prices.
Give him a break, he has even offered to allow tourists entry for a £1 donation to charity, and will then give you back your £1 from his own pocket if you make a purchase.
He also offers a 30% discount to all local Key-workers. In any case, its worth a £1 donation to charity for tourists to be able to enjoy exploring such a big shop with many rooms on multiple floors.
We should applaud him, and how clever to get all this free publicity!
Great shop, quality furniture. I happily recommend his shop, and will will be going back for a dining table in the very near future.
username is already in use
says...
1:43pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Chris the plumber
says...
2:22pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Chris the plumber
says...
2:22pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Chris the plumber
says...
2:22pm Thu 21 Mar 13
j neptune esq
says...
2:48pm Thu 21 Mar 13
O'Reilly
says...
2:59pm Thu 21 Mar 13
scrumpyjack
says...
3:06pm Thu 21 Mar 13
O'Reilly wrote:It's all over the Daily Mail.
This is a very clever ploy on the owner's part to gain such cheap advertising for his business. There are 65 comments on here and if the MSM get hold of the story anything can happen.
bobsworthforever
says...
3:19pm Thu 21 Mar 13
bmthlad69
says...
3:22pm Thu 21 Mar 13
j neptune esq wrote:Nope you won't be welcome, you live one mile too far. Unlucky buddy
i'm confused. i live 31 miles away, but work 29 miles away. i need some lovely pine furniture for the office, will i be welcome?
poolepaul
says...
3:59pm Thu 21 Mar 13
mavis.knows.best wrote:And of course you have nothing to do with the shop do you???
I have purchased from this shop many times. Its a fascinating furniture shop, and I found the staff helpful and knowledgeable - the service was great, with free delivery, and the furniture I bought was carefully carried to the exact spot I wanted.
This shop is a refreshing change, offering quality furniture at very reasonable prices.
Give him a break, he has even offered to allow tourists entry for a £1 donation to charity, and will then give you back your £1 from his own pocket if you make a purchase.
He also offers a 30% discount to all local Key-workers. In any case, its worth a £1 donation to charity for tourists to be able to enjoy exploring such a big shop with many rooms on multiple floors.
We should applaud him, and how clever to get all this free publicity!
Great shop, quality furniture. I happily recommend his shop, and will will be going back for a dining table in the very near future.
joetheman
says...
4:00pm Thu 21 Mar 13
ShuttleX
says...
4:15pm Thu 21 Mar 13
BIGTONE
says...
4:28pm Thu 21 Mar 13
wayneofafcb
says...
4:31pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Telscombe Cliffy
says...
4:34pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Star rating**
praelis
says...
4:41pm Thu 21 Mar 13
arthur1948
says...
4:50pm Thu 21 Mar 13
knightbanneret
says...
4:54pm Thu 21 Mar 13
scrumpyjack wrote:I've been trying the Daily Mail all day, but I can't see that they've run it yet.
O'Reilly wrote: This is a very clever ploy on the owner's part to gain such cheap advertising for his business. There are 65 comments on here and if the MSM get hold of the story anything can happen.It's all over the Daily Mail.
Imagine if it inspires coach loads of people start turning up to have a look!
Ah, the irony!
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
4:59pm Thu 21 Mar 13
BOSC_Milly wrote:Nutshell.
auntsally wrote:What is good for Christchurch is new businesses opening on the High Street - we hardly have any empty units, most of which have an entirely different attitude to this guy! It is a town that relies on tourists as well as locals after all!
I think this is a bad for Christchurch and I will not set foot in his shop ever again while he has that sign up Just a small question how does he know who lives in Christchurch and who is a "tourist" what does he mean by that ?
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
5:30pm Thu 21 Mar 13
PokesdownMark wrote:He is basically saying whoever comes into my shop better buy something or else... don't have the audacity to even step foot into MY premises...
He is basically saying, hey I don't care how many thousand people come into my shop looking to give me money for stuff, I only sell stuff they don't want.
If he had adapted his product to match his customers needs he could be retired and relaxing on a beach in a tropical climate?!
Assuming it is true.
Jackazz!
Bournesouthmouth Downpokes
says...
5:31pm Thu 21 Mar 13
mikey2gorgeous wrote:Here here!
500+ coach tourists per day and he can't stock his shop with things they will buy? Either this story is complete bullocks or the chap's in the wrong business!
Golf girl
says...
5:34pm Thu 21 Mar 13
knightbanneret wrote:It is on the mail online, read it earlier, same story
scrumpyjack wrote:I've been trying the Daily Mail all day, but I can't see that they've run it yet.
O'Reilly wrote: This is a very clever ploy on the owner's part to gain such cheap advertising for his business. There are 65 comments on here and if the MSM get hold of the story anything can happen.It's all over the Daily Mail.
Imagine if it inspires coach loads of people start turning up to have a look!
Ah, the irony!
Telscombe Cliffy
says...
5:38pm Thu 21 Mar 13
GAHmusic
says...
5:46pm Thu 21 Mar 13
The Timelord
says...
5:59pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Chirstchurch - a great place to visit, even better to leave!
Anniebiddle
says...
6:41pm Thu 21 Mar 13
skydriver wrote:I took two friends into this shop on Monday, I hadn't realised they had been asked if they were local until we left the store, they mentioned they were with a local. We didn't buy anything from this shop but my friends purchased a painting from bookends and gifts from Eden Home. This shop needs to remember that Christchurch needs tourists and in these difficult times we do not want the bad publicity this story will bring the town. It has already made national radio. What will holiday makers think about this town as a destination for a happy holiday? I am ashamed to be a resident at this moment.
I can't for the life of me see why people would visit the shop anyway, it's full of unwanted rubbish, that has now overflowed onto the footpath. Now there is another question!!!Why is that allowed to happed???
Monkus&Noggin
says...
6:46pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Dont drop litter
says...
6:47pm Thu 21 Mar 13
s-pb2 wrote:HaHa - 'A local shop for local people'.
He hasnt got a wife called Tubbs has he? Beware the son upstairs!
That might be lost on most of the readers.
Dibbles2
says...
6:52pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Glashen wrote:I think your wrong. If a pub can allow the banningof away fans on a home match why cant this chap reserve the right to let whoever he wants in his shop. Has he mentioned race, age or ethnicity. No, he said no tourists and that could mean anyone not local.
MngsMnr wrote:Not true, he must trade in a way that is not discriminatory on the grounds of sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. Given the make up of Christchurch I suspect his policy might fall foul of that.
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
Talkingheadera
says...
7:38pm Thu 21 Mar 13
ben111 wrote:Lol
Maybe he meant to put up ,,,,,,,,, NO TERORISTS ,,,,,,,,,,,
shaunle
says...
7:42pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Victor_Meldrew_Lives!
says...
7:44pm Thu 21 Mar 13
The Liberal
says...
8:05pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Mind you, the place looks a complete shambles from the outside, so it's a wonder anyone actually goes in there.
poolepaul
says...
8:40pm Thu 21 Mar 13
J.P.M
says...
9:32pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Bournemouth2014
says...
9:53pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Yankee1
says...
9:58pm Thu 21 Mar 13
MngsMnr wrote:So, if he said 'No Darkies' or 'No TowelHeads', that would be ok with you?
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
Yankee1
says...
10:01pm Thu 21 Mar 13
A brazen attempt at self publicity. And the Echo fell for it. Where is the 'crossed arms/I am disgusted' photograph?
Rich_Enduro
says...
10:21pm Thu 21 Mar 13
s-pb2 wrote:LOL, I think this is a video of them in their previous shop!! ;) http://www.youtube.c
He hasnt got a wife called Tubbs has he? Beware the son upstairs!
om/watch?v=meF7NmfnX
Z0
arti273
says...
10:45pm Thu 21 Mar 13
I appreciate tourist aren't going to be buying much pine furniture to take home on their coach, but ....
A lot of locals rely on tourists to give them disposable income (even if it's tourist paying parking charges and keeping our Council Tax down). Anything that damages that, leaves less disposable income for the locals and the less they will have to spend in our shops, including his - unlikely as it may seem.
People really need to think about the bigger picture.
arti273
says...
10:49pm Thu 21 Mar 13
janetmanley@rocketmail.com
says...
11:03pm Thu 21 Mar 13
Dibbles2
says...
11:33pm Thu 21 Mar 13
shaunle wrote:Racist?
I visit my Sister who has lived in Christchurch for 17 years, next week, with my French wife and Son, let see him kick us out, I have him on a racist charge.
Dibbles2
says...
11:33pm Thu 21 Mar 13
shaunle wrote:Racist?
I visit my Sister who has lived in Christchurch for 17 years, next week, with my French wife and Son, let see him kick us out, I have him on a racist charge.
cpf242
says...
12:08am Fri 22 Mar 13
Dibbles2 wrote:Pubs ban away fans due to the fact that there is an increased risk of public disorder.
Glashen wrote:I think your wrong. If a pub can allow the banningof away fans on a home match why cant this chap reserve the right to let whoever he wants in his shop. Has he mentioned race, age or ethnicity. No, he said no tourists and that could mean anyone not local.
MngsMnr wrote:Not true, he must trade in a way that is not discriminatory on the grounds of sex, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation or disability. Given the make up of Christchurch I suspect his policy might fall foul of that.
If he pays his rent and rates he's entitled to allow who he wants in his shop.
I don't see any disorder here.
Will he be asking for two forms of I.D. before you can enter his business?
AdelaidePete
says...
3:47am Fri 22 Mar 13
pokesdown1
says...
6:50am Fri 22 Mar 13
Lord Spring
says...
7:36am Fri 22 Mar 13
Telscombe Cliffy wrote:Croydon a holiday resort, I bet they delivered it for free just to get away for a few hours
I was on holiday in Croydon 2 years ago and saw a bed and cooker I liked. I bought them. Had them delivered to Christchurch no problem. Both shops in Croydon did not ask if I was a tourist.
l'anglais
says...
7:44am Fri 22 Mar 13
This is blatant discrimination.
nosuchluck54
says...
7:44am Fri 22 Mar 13
ts/dog owners comments and to those commenters who will avoid him and his shop like the plague im fairly confident he wont miss you,so lighten up miserable sods
Rob86879
says...
7:55am Fri 22 Mar 13
belafonte
says...
8:34am Fri 22 Mar 13
My guess is it won't take long for Aladdins Cave to become a Desolate Hole, one that won't be missed by tourists or locals.
susi.m
says...
8:49am Fri 22 Mar 13
bobsworthforever wrote:Feel free to open one if you have the resources to do so.
What Christchurch needs are some good antique shops.that sells good nice antiques like Bath not rubbish shops like his, then the visitors will have something good to look at and may be spend some money in the town.
boscombewizard
says...
8:53am Fri 22 Mar 13
In fact I think everyone should be asked to make a deposit on entry, refundable only with a purchase.
If I was fabulously wealthy I would bus in 100s of people who live within 30 miles and pay them to mill around his stupid little shop.
The Liberal
says...
9:30am Fri 22 Mar 13
boscombewizard wrote:No need… flashmob!
I don't think people who live 30 miles away are local. He should be much more restrictive. I think 10 miles at most.
In fact I think everyone should be asked to make a deposit on entry, refundable only with a purchase.
If I was fabulously wealthy I would bus in 100s of people who live within 30 miles and pay them to mill around his stupid little shop.
Pikey-Biker
says...
10:11am Fri 22 Mar 13
boscombewizard wrote:I am not clued up on this area, but I do get the feeling people from here don’t get out that much.
I don't think people who live 30 miles away are local. He should be much more restrictive. I think 10 miles at most. In fact I think everyone should be asked to make a deposit on entry, refundable only with a purchase. If I was fabulously wealthy I would bus in 100s of people who live within 30 miles and pay them to mill around his stupid little shop.
Perhaps they think the world is flat, or people who are not local are foreigner’s different language different currency
Pikey-Biker
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10:15am Fri 22 Mar 13
Quite unique
Hugo808
says...
10:20am Fri 22 Mar 13
bmthlad69 wrote:And what do people waiting for a bus actually want? My guess is they want to keep out of the rain. If he's making more money since he banned coach party's then it's QED, and good for him!
Bonkeydollocks wrote:Its not that clever because its put me off going in there. It sounds like the bloke has a serious attitude problem.
Its a clever bit of reverse psychology IMHO - and the Echo is giving free publicity. Very clever by the shop owner!
He must be mad, he gets 100's of tourists in his shop yet he bans them. Why doesn't he sell stuff the tourist want? instead of the unwanted rubbish.
I can't see this news report helping him in any way.
What an idiot!!
Telscombe Cliffy
says...
10:50am Fri 22 Mar 13
Pikey-Biker
says...
11:18am Fri 22 Mar 13
bobsworthforever wrote:just like Sarah Duncan from Bath
What Christchurch needs are some good antique shops.that sells good nice antiques like Bath not rubbish shops like his, then the visitors will have something good to look at and may be spend some money in the town.
Pikey-Biker
says...
11:21am Fri 22 Mar 13
skydriver
says...
12:50pm Fri 22 Mar 13
bmthlad69
says...
12:56pm Fri 22 Mar 13
Hugo808 wrote:He could sell drinks/food, he could sell souvenirs, he could sell books/newspapers... the list is endless, basically anything but rotten furniture.
bmthlad69 wrote:And what do people waiting for a bus actually want? My guess is they want to keep out of the rain. If he's making more money since he banned coach party's then it's QED, and good for him!
Bonkeydollocks wrote:Its not that clever because its put me off going in there. It sounds like the bloke has a serious attitude problem.
Its a clever bit of reverse psychology IMHO - and the Echo is giving free publicity. Very clever by the shop owner!
He must be mad, he gets 100's of tourists in his shop yet he bans them. Why doesn't he sell stuff the tourist want? instead of the unwanted rubbish.
I can't see this news report helping him in any way.
What an idiot!!
j_o_connell
says...
1:26pm Fri 22 Mar 13
bmthlad69 wrote:I have to agree it is brilliant publicity, but its very close minded thing to say that he should just sell the things tourists want... its obviously a surviving business selling furniture to locals. If every shop in a tourist spot turned to sell what tourists want then locals would have no shops for things that they actually need.......
Bonkeydollocks wrote:Its not that clever because its put me off going in there. It sounds like the bloke has a serious attitude problem.
Its a clever bit of reverse psychology IMHO - and the Echo is giving free publicity. Very clever by the shop owner!
He must be mad, he gets 100's of tourists in his shop yet he bans them. Why doesn't he sell stuff the tourist want? instead of the unwanted rubbish.
I can't see this news report helping him in any way.
What an idiot!!
chiefwolf2
says...
1:35pm Fri 22 Mar 13
bmthlad69
says...
1:50pm Fri 22 Mar 13
chiefwolf2 wrote:Totally agree, but apparently this is very close minded according to j_o_connell!
What a moron!!!!!! How can coach tourists by furniture ???? What does he expect???? The answer is plain to see...... stock products that the tourist would buy!! small stuff and gimmicky the type of things tourist would buy..... have a cafe... a vending machine or sell sweets or drinks as well....... For christ(church) sake make the most of that opportunity of lots of footfall.... All other retailers would relish that and act on it........ Do yourself a favour.... act on it and make money.... or strangle your business.... otherwise you will be gone within 2 years......
The Timelord
says...
1:58pm Fri 22 Mar 13
The Liberal wrote:Great idea- flashmob gangs of pensioners bussed in from the daycentres complete with their zimmer frames to clutter his shop!
boscombewizard wrote:No need… flashmob!
I don't think people who live 30 miles away are local. He should be much more restrictive. I think 10 miles at most.
In fact I think everyone should be asked to make a deposit on entry, refundable only with a purchase.
If I was fabulously wealthy I would bus in 100s of people who live within 30 miles and pay them to mill around his stupid little shop.
Or the more mobile pensioners could circle the shop with their Honda Jazzes. That'd keep anyone else away.
During the war......
Telscombe Cliffy
says...
3:58pm Fri 22 Mar 13
mantle wrote:Well I have a large chest under my jumper.
Its easy for shoplifters to nick small items,
You hardly ever see any body walk out of a shop with a wardrobe or a kitchen table tucked up their jumper.
Bournefre
says...
4:04pm Fri 22 Mar 13
"This is a local shop for local people" might be a line from the league of gentlemen, but how many tourists do you see getting back on the coach with a wardrobe or chest of drawers?
LJT1966
says...
4:45pm Fri 22 Mar 13
O'Reilly
says...
5:14pm Fri 22 Mar 13
bmthlad69 wrote:That is the whole point of his argument, they can't, so he doesn't want them cluttering up his emporium.....
chiefwolf2 wrote:Totally agree, but apparently this is very close minded according to j_o_connell!
What a moron!!!!!! How can coach tourists by furniture ???? What does he expect???? The answer is plain to see...... stock products that the tourist would buy!! small stuff and gimmicky the type of things tourist would buy..... have a cafe... a vending machine or sell sweets or drinks as well....... For christ(church) sake make the most of that opportunity of lots of footfall.... All other retailers would relish that and act on it........ Do yourself a favour.... act on it and make money.... or strangle your business.... otherwise you will be gone within 2 years......
chrissec
says...
5:22pm Fri 22 Mar 13
chiesa
says...
5:31pm Fri 22 Mar 13
How vile of one trader, with a prominent position on the high street to make people feel unwelcome in the town. What next - should we ban all children, or perhaps the grey pound that Christchurch is famous for .... what a disgusting way to do business.
shame on you.
christchurch long time resident
says...
6:41pm Fri 22 Mar 13
Mcfly77
says...
7:11pm Fri 22 Mar 13
Kirk90
says...
9:08pm Fri 22 Mar 13
Our county would be non existent. We rely on tourists to bring all shop owners a lot of custom. This man may have his views but is setting up a wrong example for our area.
He sounds like he is incapable of any customer services and should be taught this is not how to deal with the situation!
EGHH
says...
9:02am Sat 23 Mar 13
GreyBeardLoon
says...
12:29pm Sat 23 Mar 13
Mcfly77 wrote:Abercrombie and Finch?
Full of rubbish anyway! I went in there once and there was fake abercrombie & Finch stuff in there. Perhaps trading standards should pay a visit!
catfan
says...
2:34pm Sat 23 Mar 13
Not the sort of 'welcome' sign for a holiday town to hang out.
Sadly I am within his allowed geographic area of tolerance - but no, I won't be going into his emporium. He's not been watching Mr Selfridge, has he??? A hope for everyone.....
kingnotail
says...
4:58pm Sat 23 Mar 13
freddie beare
says...
4:34pm Mon 1 Apr 13
s-pb2 says...
8:43am Thu 21 Mar 13