SHOPS in the town must improve even more if they are to compete with the new Tesco supermarket, a Haslemere shopkeeper said this week.
Raymond Reid, who runs Raymond Reid Photographic in Haslemere High Street, said shops in the High Street and Wey Hill had had several years to prepare for the supermarket giant's arrival.
He said: "Few of us have done much. Many still close for lunch and most open seven or less hours a day. Tesco trades over double this, with a 90-hour, seven-day week. Tesco's building is bright, well lit, clean and inviting, unlike much of the competition."
Mr Reid continued: "What needs to be done? Local shops and stores need to improve. We must look at our way of operating and make changes.
"We need to train our staff better - our company has three full-time qualifieds with two more taking their finals this year and one more about to start studying.
"We need to look at prices. Haslemere has a reputation for being expensive and yet often it beats Guildford and London.
"Maybe other local retailers need to invest more in their future. Longer openinjg hours may be difficult to staff, but what is the alternative?"
Mr Reid said the public could also help shopkeepers.
"If they want local shops and not just one or two superstores several miles away, they must help us. Tell us where we are making mistakes and before they shop elsewhere tell us if we are too expensive or you need different goods and services.
"Many shop owners do not have the time to study other shops or other towns."
He added: "It may take two or three customers to tell us the same thing, but most of us will listen and reward you for your help."