Housewares Business-to-business magazine for housewares retailers and their suppliers
After 14 years, Teddington cookshop Kitchen Sync will be closing its doors for the last time at the end of this month.
The prospect of a substantial rent increase, combined with the need to commit to a protracted further term, meant she “reluctantly had to make this very sad and disappointing decision”.
She explained: In recent years, we’ve managed to adapt, make compromises and find creative ways to deliver added value for our customers and our business. Unfortunately, on this occasion, we’ve ben unable to negotiate viable terms with our landlord.”
Sue also highlighted the impact of competition from internet trading on her bricks and mortar business. “The reality is that many customers have changed their shopping habits over the last few years,” she said.
“We now all buy so much more online and the trend shows no sign of slowing, let alone stopping. I’d like to think that by offering customers added value in-store and a more enjoyable shopping experience, we could have met the challenge that the internet presents for small retailers.
“Many of our most prominent suppliers now also sell, and discount, their products directly to consumers via their own websites. These suppliers are boosting their margins but cutting out – and killing off – their retail network, and turning us into showrooms where our trained staff advise customers who then go away and buy online.
“All the time, rents, rates and all other costs continue to rise and we just cannot match their prices. So, I’m losing a business I dearly love and Teddington is losing its specialist cookshop.”
