Popular UK clothes shop closes for good – in business for 70 years | UK | News
A popular store that has been serving customers for decades has closed for good. Raymond’s has long been a fixture in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, with a small number of stores operating in various parts of the area over the years.
The business was founded almost a century ago by Raymond Raymond and the first store opened in Coalway in the late 1930s. The entrepreneur died in 1999 at the age of 89, but his legacy has continued with successive generations playing their part in the life of the stores. In modern times the business consisted of a carpet retail store in Coleford as well as a clothing and household goods outlet in Newerne Street in the town of Lydney.
But in a blow to locals, the latter announced on Saturday, March 28 that it was downing its shutters for the final time.
The family business appears to have started operating in Lydney almost 70 years ago in 1954, when a wholesale textile business was established with a warehouse at the back. Forest Review reports.
In the following years, Raymond’s became a mainstay of the town’s shopping scene, selling men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and household goods.
However, the Lydney branch served customers for the last time last month; Raymond’s daughter Gloria and granddaughter Hayley were behind the register as customers came into the store for the last time.
In a post on Facebook on March 29, the team said: “Sadly yesterday was our last day in business, to all our lovely customers, old and new, thank you for your tradition and friendship over the years.
“Unfortunately all good things must come to an end. Best wishes to you. Love Jane, Gloria and Hayley,” he said, without elaborating on what prompted the move.
They added that the Coleford store “will remain open for all your rugs, mats and carpeting needs.”
One person commented: “This is such a shame. Over the years we always tried to use Raymonds for everything before going to the big brands,” while another said they would be “sorely missed.”
News of the closure was shared on the Lydney Community Group on Facebook, with previous customers flocking to the comments to express their sadness at the store’s departure.
One wrote: “What a sad day for Lydney, a real institution.” Another said: “What a shame, they will be missed.”
A third added: “This has been the heart of Lydney for as long as I’ve been alive and longer.”
“I’m so sorry to hear this but thank you so much to the family and staff who got him through these difficult times.”
