Proposals for a new Aldi supermarket on Winchelsea Road in Rye have yet to be approved, however a decision is expected from Rother District Council planners soon.
Two weeks ago in our article “Another twist in the supermarket battle” we quoted from the financial accounts of local retailer Jempson’s for the year to June 30 2024. This week in Rye News, managing director Stephen Jempson writes to add some more detail to the numbers we reported on.
While the figures quoted are drawn from one of the Jempsons Group’s statutory accounts, I would like to provide some clarification and additional context that we feel are important for your readers.
Firstly, the reported net loss includes a one-off intercompany loan write-off totalling £862,366, as disclosed in the company’s statutory accounts. This exceptional item was non-cash and non-trading in nature. If removed, the underlying performance was considerably more stable.
Secondly, the wider Jempsons Group employs well over 300 full-time equivalent colleagues across its wider operations, not the 231 stated. As one of the largest private employers in the area, we remain deeply committed to supporting long-term employment and personal development for our team.
Thirdly, while the Peasmarsh fuel station does represent around 23% of total sales, this is largely due to high-volume, low-margin fuel sales and does not reflect a proportional contribution to profit or operating activity. The turnover does also include all sales from the attached Jempson’s Express store, car wash, jet wash, domestic fuel and gardening goods to name but a few.
More importantly, we believe your readers deserve to understand the broader backdrop. The past financial year saw the business absorb almost £1 million of additional costs including:
• A significant uplift in wage costs following the introduction of the new National Living Wage
• A sharp increase in business rates and energy prices (light and heat)
• Cost pressures across supply chains and logistics
These factors collectively added almost £1 million to our operating costs during the year.
Despite these headwinds, our focus has remained resolute. We have continued to support local producers, strengthen relationships with regional suppliers, and invest in our community-facing services. As highlighted in my group strategic report, our long-standing culture is underpinned by the dedication of our colleagues and the loyalty of our customer base.
Rye News will have more on the proposals for the site of the new supermarket, which also include homes and retirement housing, next week.
Rye News welcomes all opinion pieces on issues that affect life in Rye and the surrounding villages. If you would like to add yours to our Opinions section email info@ryenews.org.uk.
Image Credits: Nick Forman .