Residents, businesses, and charities say they are feeling the pinch of rising costs, with many describing the economy as a key priority ahead of the Isle of Man general election. Several independent shops in Ramsey said custom was down and running costs had become harder to manage, while the island's foodbank said demand for support had doubled in two years. The Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce warned the Island faced "a very hard five years" ahead, citing a shrinking tax base and the recent loss of many high‑earning jobs.
Candidates have been urged to explain how they will fund their plans, support businesses, and reduce the pressures on working families. Residents in Douglas said rising prices were affecting everyday life, with several describing the cost of living as their biggest concern ahead of the election. Sharon Cox, from Douglas, said life was "not affordable.. especially for older people and vulnerable people".
Prices were rising "not just by pennies", but by "25 or 30 pence" each time she visited the shops, she added. Mum-of-one Caitlin Gibson said she was living with her mum and struggled to save anything while caring for her young daughter. She said: "I can't really afford to move out.
I can't afford to save anything, so everything I earn, which is very little in the first place, is going on my baby." Another Douglas resident, Andrew Cairns, said rising fuel and energy costs were having "a massive impact". "Petrol is going up, electric, gas. You've only got to go in a shop a month apart and you can see the prices rising," he added.
He said it was something on his mind ahead of election, adding there was "a lot we can do to cut down our costs". A number of businesses described the last few years as some of the hardest they had faced. Tania Dolores, from Tania Dolores Shoes and Accessories, said: "Every day is a struggle.
We are not making what we used to make." She said her takings were "exactly the same amount of money as ten years ago", but that her bills were "much higher". Amy Salter, from the Brunch cafe, said the cost of supplies and energy had changed how the family business operated. When the business opened three years ago, it was "a lot easier than it is now", she said, adding that even small price rises in stock were having a big impact.
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