Biddles Opens Again But Still Needs Crowdfunding Help

Published on: 15 Jul, 2020
Updated on: 15 Jul, 2020

After almost four traumatic months of the coronavirus lockdown and then administration, stationers Biddles of Guildford re-opened on July 1 under new owners.

But former managers at the shop, David Goddard and Neal Heaven, who bought the business in Ward Street with their own savings, need more help through crowdfunding.

The new Biddles of Guildford in refurbished premises in Ward Street, opposite the Guildford Institute, will continue its 135-year history of the firm in the town.

David and Neal launched a crowdfunding bid in June to save Biddles from being permanently closed (see Crowdfund race against time to save long running Biddles stationery shop) and they achieved their initial target of £1,500 within a week.

The stretch target of £20,000, needed to bring back the five staff who had been working at Biddles before the lockdown, is proving more difficult.

David Goddard (left) land Neal Heaven in the Biddles shop they have rescued from closure. Their mission now is to bring back the former five staff who were made redundant when the ‘old’ Biddles went into administration.

David Goddard said: “We are amazed by the response from customers, a mixture of joy from those who knew the story behind the closure, and disbelief from those who didn’t. The overall feeling was it is great we are open once more.”

Neal and David said that the business has returned to steady trade but they are taking nothing for granted in the tough retail environment. “If good will alone could rescue a business,” said David, “our future looks positive.”

The crowdfunder has reached about a third of its target. David Goddard said: “Please help us spread the word and donate if you can.”

In return for the crowdfunding support, the new company is offering a number of rewards including, limited edition Biddles pen and pencil sets and incentives in the form of “pay it forward” vouchers for funding of £20 and larger.

Neal and David both thanked people for their support and good wishes as customers and crowdfunders.

Neal added: “We look forward to welcoming you all back to the shop. We are back on our feet once again and here’s to another 135 years. It is good to be back, thank you all!”

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