"The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust."
Psalm 18 v 2
GARDEN CENTRE TAKES A STAND ON SUNDAY
Russell's Garden Centre near Chichester now closes on Sundays for the good of the staff and their families. It is a decision that has produced a great deal of publicity both locally and nationally. The decision was reported in the local paper, the Argus, but also on the BBC website and in Horticulture Week magazine (the leading trade magazine for the horticultural industry). The Argus seems to take a very sceptical and dismissive tone whereas the BBC article is more even handed.
What is interesting is that the decision is not from any religious or faith motive, but simply for the good of the staff.
For the majority of Garden Centres, Sunday is the busiest day of the week even though trading for most is limited to 6 hours, rather than the more usual 9 on Saturdays. The accountant to the business has told the Phillips family that they are mad to make such a decision. However, the Phillips report that support has been very strong.
A nursery owner near Bristol was once heard to say "If you can't make enough money trading on 6 days, you shouldn't be in business".