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GST makes it right time to close, says jeweller

Holly-Anne LangloisGuernsey
News imageBBC Machon's Jewellers is a black store with a sheen coating to its walls, with it's name in gold text. There are two large windows either side the the central doorway with jewellery displayed. There are two big white sign with red writing says SALE on at the top of each window. The number '47' appears in the top corners of the store in gold, noting it's address in The Pollet. BBC
Owner Will van Zanten said GST was part of the accumulation of reasons why he was closing his doors

Machon's Jewellers is closing its doors after 166 years with the incoming good and services tax (GST) among the reasons given by its owner.

Will van Zanten said the closure of the store at 47, The Pollet, St Peter Port, was down to an accumulation of things, but the impending introduction of the consumption tax meant now was the right time.

A decision to introduce a 3% GST in 2029 was approved by Guernsey politicians earlier this month, which van Zanten said would bring extra work and additional compliance expenses for smaller local shops.

"Retail trade is changing," he said. "I'm not so keen on the direction of change."

News imageVan Zanten is stood leaning on a table. He is wearing a black fleece zip-up with a white shirt. He is wearing a gold chain and round glasses. He is a man appearing to be in his early 60s, with a circle beard and grey-ing hair.
Will van Zanten said he did not feel the consumption based tax was the best thing for local retailers

While van Zanten explained GST was not the sole reason for closure, he cited the future introduction of GST as the final reason to shut his store now.

He said it would be a "lot to take on" for his small business.

Van Zanten also felt there was a changing culture of retail shopping, which was heading in a direction he was not so keen on.

He felt the personal touch of retail was an important part that was now disappearing due to online retailers and the growth of AI.

Though van Zanten believes there "is still a place for specialist shops on the highstreet".

But for him, now was "the right time" to shut up shop, especially as he "approaches retirement".

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