Cambridgeshire butcher turns to social media after high street decline
He's seen a drop in the number of people shopping on local high streets
A Whittlesey butcher is hoping social media can help keep his business going, as fewer people visit the town’s high street.
He’s turning to online platforms to attract new shoppers.
It follows figures showing an average of 37 shops shut each day last year, according to the Centre for Retail Research.
Shop sales have slowed over the last couple of months
"Shop sales have slowed over the last couple of months," Mark Field, owner of Jones Butchers, said.
"I think it's down to a few things; people aren't using the high street and most likely supermarkets."
Mark said he's had to let some staff leave because of customers' changing habits.
"It's easier to just put things in your trolley when you're doing the rest of your shopping in a supermarket," he added.
"I've already had to let a couple staff go; I'm having to stand behind the counter on my own at the minute until things get a bit better.
"It's important to use the high street and shop local because if we don't, then the high street will end up dying more than it already has over the last couple of years."
Inflation steady but still at highest level
The price of meat increasing over the last few years is another reason local butchers are worried about their future.
UK inflation stood still last month, remaining at the highest level since the start of 2024.
However, the rate of food and drink increased for the fifth month in a row, putting more pressure on households as they face a more expensive supermarket shop.
The Office for National Statistics said food items such as vegetables, milk, cheese, fish, beef and pork were rising last month.
Industry group the Food and Drink Federation also said food manufacturers were coming under pressure from greater business costs.