Former Trader Faces Mental Health Struggles Amid Market Decline

A former trader at Coventry Market has shared the toll that financial difficulties and the ongoing City Centre South redevelopment have taken on his mental health. After more than a decade in business, Hardeep Johal was compelled to close his store, T and H Watches, due to mounting pressures.

Hardeep founded T and H Watches in 2011, but by the time he closed his stall, he was struggling to make ends meet. Despite implementing competitive pricing strategies, the impact of the £450 million regeneration project severely affected his sales. The 38-year-old described his last months in business as increasingly challenging, stating, “For the last couple of years, I have been struggling financially, so it was really bad. Mentally, I was struggling because I was not making any money.”

With his mental wellbeing deteriorating, Hardeep made the decision to leave Coventry Market and take on a new job in September 2023. Although he was offered the opportunity to run his business rent-free at the market, he declined, explaining, “I said no because mentally I do not want to be here selling my stuff because I know that the place to be is so hard.”

Hardeep’s situation reflects a broader issue facing traders at Coventry Market, particularly as the City Centre South project progresses. Many stallholders have reported a decline in foot traffic, raising concerns about the future of the market. On November 13, traders, including Kathryn Harrison from Johnsons the Florist, gathered to discuss the project’s impact. Kathryn mentioned that she frequently receives inquiries about the potential closure of Coventry Market. “We have noticed that footfall has decreased. I am constantly getting asked when Coventry Market is closing,” she said.

Traders are apprehensive about the upcoming holiday season. Although there is an expected increase in customers as Christmas approaches, many worry about the long-term viability of their businesses. Kathryn expressed her concerns for smaller traders, remarking, “I can only imagine what the smaller traders are going to be like!”

In response to the concerns raised by traders, a spokesperson for Coventry City Council stated, “Work is well underway now on City Centre South, and that is good news, as it will create a new community in the city centre, providing homes and places to work, shop, and spend leisure time.” The council aims to enhance the market’s visibility and accessibility as part of the regeneration plans.

The spokesperson also reassured traders that efforts are being made to keep rents manageable and to offer flexible options. “We and the Hill Group will continue to work closely with traders as the scheme progresses to ensure the best possible future for Coventry Market,” they added.

As Hardeep embarks on a new chapter in his career, the challenges faced by traders at Coventry Market serve as a reminder of the significant impact of urban redevelopment on local businesses and the individuals behind them. The ongoing situation highlights the need for continued support and adaptation in the face of changing economic landscapes.