A BRITISH department store is saying goodbye to its loyal customers and staff after 135 years of trading.
The family-run retailer posted the announcement to , in a “truly saddening” statement.
Barnsley is closing its store after 135 years Credit: Facebook
The family-run department store originally opened in 1891 Credit: Facebook
The directors of Barsleys Department Store in Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, have announced with a “heavy heart” they are closing with all 36 members of staff being made redundant.
Dad and daughter, Richard and Alice Barsley, say it has been a “difficult” decision prompted by “growing economic and social pressures”.
The department store specialised in women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, , furniture, flooring, blinds, curtains, kitchen, dining and electrical products, as well as toys, gifts and footwear.
Some of the brands sold included Barbour, Seasalt, Joe Brown, Russell Hobbs, Parker Knoll, Sodastream, G-Plan, and many other well-known household names.
In a statement, they said: “Many of our colleagues have been with us for a significant number of years, contributing not just their skills and hard work, but also their loyalty, camaraderie, and spirit.
“It makes this moment all the more difficult, as we face the reality that their roles will be coming to an end as part of our closing down sale.
“We are truly saddened to be saying goodbye to such a dedicated group of people. Each individual has played an important part in our story, and their contributions will not be forgotten.”
As part of the final chapter for the , Barsleys will shut from 4pm today, May 7, to prepare for its public closing down sale which will launch on Friday, May 15, at 10am.
In February, the company announced it was seeking a new owner and explained had faced “significant challenges”, including an increase in overheads and regulation in the last 18 months.
The pair said they had tried to navigate the challenges but ultimately, the financial and social pressures meant they could no longer continue.
The business, which was founded by Charles Barsley in 1891, is still on the market with Lawson Commercial for £1.9 million and available to let for £145,000 a year.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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