The future of Fisher’s, the only independent supermarket in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, has been “secured” after teaming up with Sainsbury’s.
Fisher’s has been under threat following increased supermarket competition in recent years and sought advice from specialist property adviser Christie + Co.
Director and head of retail at Christie + Co, Steve Rodell, said: “It was a great opportunity to apply our expertise to such a high profile and well-established business. As soon as Paul Fisher provided the background to his family’s situation we recognised this was not a simple letting instruction.
“We had to ensure the matter was kept confidential whilst a select few prospective parties were approached. There were some complex issues to take into consideration around staff, operations, public relations and all whilst maintaining a focus on achieving the best deal for the Fisher family.”
The deal between Fisher’s and Sainsbury’s to share the Packhorse Road premises, secures the store’s future in Gerrards Cross. Fisher’s will continue to operate from approximately a third of the store, running a butcher’s and quality delicatessen, and a separate new Sainsbury’s Local will occupy the remainder.
The majority of the staff currently employed by Fisher’s will have their jobs secured, with some staying to work in the new butcher’s shop and many others being offered positions in the new Sainsbury’s Local.
Paul Fisher of Fisher’s said: “We have been part of the Gerrards Cross community since 1969 and needed our advisers to handle the matter professionally. With our future becoming increasingly uncertain in Gerrards we had to engage an experienced adviser to guide us in the specialist area of convenience retailing for possible solutions. The agreement reached with Sainsbury’s will allow us to continue trading in the village, which is great news for us and our customers.”
A planning application will now be submitted for the necessary changes to the premises and it is hoped that both stores will be trading together later this year.
Source: Christie + Co
