Small businesses across London have been left 'stressed' and financially strained as the ongoing London Underground strike severely impacts their profits. The four-day industrial action, which began at midday yesterday, has caused a significant drop in footfall, particularly affecting establishments that rely on commuter traffic.
Impact on Food and Retail
Theresa Roberts, owner of Jamaica Patty, reported a sharp decline in customers at her four locations near major stations. 'It's terrible for a small business like us. Our business model is based on footfall from the stations, so it is hitting us already,' she said. Roberts noted that staff had to rush home early and others struggled to travel to work. She criticized the government for lacking support for small businesses, adding, 'If we survive the Tube strike, I don't know if we'll survive this Labour government.'
Staff at Notto, an Italian lunch spot near Liverpool Street Station, revealed their revenue dropped by around 20% as many commuters chose to work from home. Similarly, Ben Nunn, owner of Nobl men's clothing store, saw takings halved. 'I only found out about the strike yesterday. It is a bit of a shame to have the strike when we're here,' he said, as his pop-up store operates for a limited time before demolition.
Union and Official Reactions
Members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) walked out from 12 noon for 24 hours and will strike again at the same time on Thursday, causing widespread delays across the TfL network. RMT official Jared Wood emphasized that the dispute involves more than just a four-day week, including issues like shift lengths and annual leave changes. 'There is absolute unanimity among our members that we have to fight these proposals,' he said, noting growing bad feeling between drivers and London Underground.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, highlighted the broader economic impact, stating that London's pubs generate approximately £80 million in gross added value between Tuesday and Friday alone. 'At a time when so many locals are already operating on a knife edge because of huge costs, significant disruption to trade will be acutely felt,' she said, calling for reforms in business rates, beer duty, and VAT.
Mayoral Response
A spokesperson for Mayor Sadiq Khan urged a swift resolution, saying, 'Strikes are bad for London and bad for Londoners, particularly for all those businesses who rely on commuters coming into our city.' They advised passengers to check before traveling, as most Tube and TfL services will continue to run but with disruptions.
Transport for London (TfL) has urged passengers to plan ahead and check for updates, as the industrial action leads to widespread delays. The mayor continues to push for a resolution to the dispute.
