One of Burnham-On-Sea’s oldest shops is set to close down at the end of August, its owner has confirmed this week.
Home Hardware in Burnham-On-Sea’s High Street is set to shut as its owner, Phil Hemming, retires. He had hoped to sell the business.
Phil told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It is with deep regret that I announce that I have finally had to admit defeat on the battle to keep the shop open.”
“Due to circumstances beyond my control the business will now close down at the end of August 2019. I am now past retirement age and wish to have a few years of relaxation.”
“I wish to take this opportunity to firstly thank my loyal staff who have stuck with me through the uncertainty of redundancy whilst negotiations took place over the last 12 months, especially to my manager Darren – the young one – who came to the shop on work experience with the previous owner over 30 years ago, and has been with me for the 24 years of my tenure. All the staff will become unemployed at the end of August.”
He adds: “Thank you to Mr Graham Jones of Major Motors who has for the last six months been desperate to purchase the business, he has shown extreme patience with all the obstacles put in his way. On the 8th July we were finally offered a deal, but the terms and conditions almost certainly ensured financial suicide in today’s climate.”
“Graham desperately wished the business to continue, as did I, for the benefit of the town. We have finally had to admit defeat, having both run up solicitors bills in the attempt.”
“The business could not have been a success without the loyalty of all my customers, and I wish them a fond farewell and thank them for sticking with me throughout much local competition. It has been great fun – most of the time!”
A Burnham Chamber of Trade spokesman said: “We are sad to hear this news. Home Hardware has been a popular and much-valued business in Burnham’s town centre for several decades, where super customer service has always been at the core of what Phil and his team have offered. The store and staff will be greatly missed.”
