Sandpiper investment ‘a very positive thing for Alderney’

The company, the Channel Islands’ largest retailer, announced on Tuesday its plans to acquire Richards Newsagents and Post Office in Alderney.

‘It’s a very positive thing for Alderney,’ said Mr Eggleston.

‘For a large company to put more commitment into the island is a good sign, and I can’t see any drawbacks in the slightest.’

Mr Eggleston believed Sandpiper would provide stability and continuity to the small island community, while the company would benefit from an ever increasing reputation for reliability and community investment.

‘Reputation is very important in a small community like Alderney. It can take a long time to build, and I think that’s what Sandpiper is doing,’ he said.

Sandpiper CI acquired Le Cocq’s Stores in Alderney in 2020, which included Le Huret Shop, Arkwright’s in Victoria Street and the Freezer Centre at The Cuttings.

The Chamber of Commerce is currently in discussions with Sandpiper to bring it further into the fabric of Alderney. Mr Eggleston said he wants to ensure that the Chamber has a good working relationship with the company for the benefit of the island.

Although he sees the acquisition as positive, Mr Eggleston said the announcement came as a big surprise.

‘As both an estate agent for the last 44 years and as the Chamber president for the last 16, this announcement really came out of the blue,’ he said.

Richard’s Newsagents had been sold by a local husband and wife duo to a man from Guernsey a few months ago. The sale had been finalised, and it surprised Mr Eggleston that the shop was changing hands yet again.

However, he believes the sale of the newsagents and post office on Victoria Street would benefit the staff and the community as a whole.