Independent gin shop to close in UK town centre – ‘increasing costs’ | UK | News
Announced the store’s closure on social media (Image: Getty)
A popular gin distillery’s first dedicated retail outlet outside Cornwall has announced it will soon close its doors for good. The store, based in Martingate Center in Corsham, Wiltshire, posted the news on social media. Corsham Rock Distillery said the decision was made “with regret” and that it was driven by “increasing costs in the industry, increasing business rates and the daily decline in the appearance and maintenance of the Martingate Centre”.
The store was opened by Paul Roper and his family, bringing the Cornish brand to the city alongside a range of mixers and an in-store tasting experience. Cornish Rock Gin Distillery, based in Wadebridge, produces a range of Cornish spirits and liqueurs including gin, whisky, rum and brandy.
According to the company’s website, the spirits are produced using Cornish spring water, 100% natural ingredients, fragrant herbs and fresh citrus fruits.
READ MORE: Overlooked UK market town with a historic high street full of independent shops
READ MORE: England’s little-known historic market town is so beautiful it’s always used as a movie set
The store is located in Martingate Center (Image: Google)
In a social media post, Mr Roper said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the closure of our Store in the Martingate Center in Corsham. We would like to thank everyone who popped into the store, supported and purchased the product, we are forever grateful!
“Unfortunately, due to rising costs in the industry, rising business rates and the daily decline in the appearance and maintenance of the Martingate Centre, we are unable to continue trading at this location.”
But Mr Roper said the business still traded from market stalls outside the store, every Wednesday at Wells Market and every Thursday at Devizes Market.
The business will also accept phone orders, offering free delivery to distances within a 10 to 15 mile radius of Corsham.
Mr Roper added: “But all is not lost! We still trade out of the store. You can find us at Wells Market every Wednesday and Devizes Market every Thursday, as well as various other seasonal/specialty markets throughout the year! Please follow social media for dates and events.”
“Thank you again for all your love and support! I hope to see you again soon at our outside events.”
One person reacted to the news by commenting on Facebook: “I’m so sorry you had to leave, soon there will be no more shops. Good luck for the future.”
Another person said: “Sorry about that but not surprised. Good luck.”
Other traders also shared their disappointment.
Oil and Ink Gallery commented on the Instagram post: “Another epic independent gone. Sad situation with Martingate, this does Corsham no good.”
Corsham Creative Market also commented, saying this was “sad news”. Another said: “This is so sad, I know how hard you all work.”
