Amy’s Housewares has closed its Palmers Green store, citing rising costs and a difficult retail climate.
Managing Director Michael Clark said a combination of increased business rates, higher insurance premiums, and the recent National Minimum Wage rise, which Clark says he “fully supports”, added £80,000 a year in extra costs across the company’s shops.
“That extra cost pushed Palmers Green from contributing to the business to making a loss,” Mr Clark explained. “Before we could even think about profit, we’d have to find £80,000 from somewhere.
The loss of the store has been deeply felt locally. It has built a loyal customer base and a warm, friendly atmosphere. “Once people found out, I received more emails than ever before,” Mr Clark recalled. “Some weren’t friendly, but many were heartfelt pleas asking us not to close. We had customers in tears. Dogs would come in for treats. Independent stores are just part of the community.”
The retailer operates locations in Swiss Cottage and East Finchley, and had started the year hoping to open two more locations but has since had to put those plans on hold.
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