THE KIDDERMINSTER Market Stall has announced it will be leaving the Swan Centre after more than 25 years of trading.
Staff delivered the news to shocked customers on Facebook on Monday evening.
The post said the decision was made with sad eyes and heavy hearts, and claimed their decision was solely because of the decline in footfall through the centre.
The official closing date has been cited as January 31, but a weekly stall will be opened up on the street market, starting on Thursday, February 5.
The statement read: “It doesn’t make sense for us to stay in there.
“In the very near future, we will be starting an online store delivery service.
“We wanted to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our loyal customers over the years.
“We’ve made some amazing friends over the period of time.
“We’re still trading as normal until Saturday, so pop down throughout the week and show the girls some love.
“Thank you from all of us.”
Shoppers have reacted with sadness to the news, taking to Facebook to say farewell to the store.
One said: “Some of the lovely comments I’ve seen just show how much you were appreciated, and it’s a shame Kidderminster is losing good people.
“But your customers have said they are pleased you will be doing the market so at least they will get to buy their lovely goodies.”
Another added: “So sorry to hear that. You guys are always so lovely, and you have the best bargains and surprises.”
And one said: “Oh no, we came today and wondered what was happening- we will miss coming in, but hopefully will catch you on a Thursday.”
This news comes just a week after The Entertainer announced it would also be leaving the Swan Centre.
The toy chain, which will be closing the store on February 7, expressed considerable regret that it could not keep its store in the town open, but concluded it was not financially viable to do so.
We have approached the Swan Centre for comment.
