BMK Stourport's plea to support local after footfall drops

Todd Turner, the owner of BMK Stourport on Bridge Street, said although his business is doing well, he has noticed a decline in customers on weekdays which is starting to become a "struggle". 

The bar, which was named the best in Worcestershire earlier this year, started from a trailer that Mr Turner "used until it fell apart" but has since gone on to achieve incredible success serving cocktails, street food, craft beers and more. 

In an appeal on social media, the 30-year-old reminded residents about the importance of supporting local businesses and that relying on weekend trade wasn't "sustainable" with rising energy costs and bills. 

Mr Turner, who is from Kidderminster, said: "I don't run this business to make huge profits, I do it because the food is my passion and it is sad to see the town in such decline. 

"Over the past six months or so, we've noticed footfall starting to drop and it feels as though the town is dying. I've spoken to other businesses in the area and they've noticed it too. 

"People are struggling for money and that has a knock on effect on local businesses and eateries as people just aren't coming out in the week anymore. We are lucky that we are doing well, looking to expand and we have income from the catering side of the business, but for a lot of bars and restaurants, it is a really big struggle." 

Todd Turner, Samuel Betterton and Thomas Phipps (Image: BMK Stourport) Mr Turner said he had also seen the boom in restaurants and bars opening in Stourport as well as a rise in people opting for delivery rather than eating out. 

In response to the social media post, many commented on the curtains making the bar look dark and as though it is closed as part of the reason they hadn't tried BMK. 

Mr Turner said he has taken the feedback onboard, but he wanted to create a bar with a different vibe and has urged the community not to be put off and to come and give them a try. 

He added: "When we first opened there were about three eateries near us but now there are more than 10. I think people are also opting a lot more for delivery rather than coming into a bar or restaurant. We can always adapt to that but it's not the same as serving customers face-to-face which makes you feel part of the community. 

"I completely understand the feedback on social media and we will be opening up the curtains a bit more and creating a family day on a Thursday. But I would also encourage the community to come and give us a go. 

"We are a bit different but once people have tried our food and cocktails, they absolutely love it. I would really encourage people to support local as it would be a shame to lose so many fantastic businesses."