THE Emporium in Mantle Street announced it is set to close its doors this month after nine years of trading in Wellington.
The owners said the ‘tough decision’ had to be made as a result of declining sales and rising costs.
The business, which provides space for local traders to sell their wares, is set to close for good on Saturday, June 29.
In a statement posted to social media the owners said: “This has been the toughest decision we have ever had to make. It has not been taken lightly, but due to a decrease in footfall, declining sales, and rising costs, we have concluded that it's time to move on.
“Nine years ago, we introduced an exciting and new concept in Wellington, bringing together over 70 local makers under one roof to sell their wares. The Emporium Somerset has been recognised as an integral part of Wellington, and we are grateful to have been surrounded by so many incredible artists and stallholders over the years.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, our wonderful customers, for supporting us for nearly a decade. We also extend our thanks to the council for assisting us with our small business rates and to the Government for their support during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We appreciate your understanding and hope that you will visit us over the course of this month to say a final goodbye and give us a much-needed hug.”
The news was met with sadness from local residents, who took to social media to express their disappointment. One resident commented: “Desperately sad for you Cato and your team after all the effort and passion you put into opening and running the venture, and for Wellington losing what has become the jewel in its retail crown.
“High street retail seems to have become virtually impossible to make viable these days which is a dreadful shame. No doubt your enormous talents will be redirected into something else wonderful in due course.”
Another said: “This makes me so sad, what a state we are in where passionate people with brilliant businesses struggle to make it work.”