On Air Night Flight | Midnight - 6:00am

'Now more than ever is the time to buy local' says minister

Clare Barber responds to calls from retail sector after business closure

Rising cost of living and input costs have been cited as the main reasons Island-based businesses may be struggling to stay afloat.

That's from the environment, food and agriculture minister who's been responding to calls from various retail outlets for more support for local companies.

It follows the announcement that Paula's Kitchen - a supplier of artisan health foods - is set to shut its doors on Friday.

The company blames 'global economic pressures'.

EVF and Robinson's Fresh Foods both urged the department to offer more support to small and independent businesses to prevent further closures.

Clare Barber is the minister:

More from Isle of Man News