A long-running shop in the centre of Burnham-On-Sea is to close down this month after more than 70 years of business.
Central Radio Services, established in 1938, is shutting its electricals shop in the High Street on September 28th.
Speaking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, owner Colin Watts says competition from Internet shopping sites is to blame for the closure.
“The overheads have sadly become too high for us. Trade has been difficult for a few years with increased competition from the Internet and out-of-town stores. Unfortunately, it’s finally seen us off.”
Colin, 73, has worked at the business for over half a century.
“I started here 58 years ago as an apprentice in 1955 (pictured) and then entered into a partnership with Ray Stevens in 1967 and we bought the business in 1972.”
“At its height, trade was really good and we had great support from Burnham’s residents and local holiday parks.”
“But then the parks started buying direct from our suppliers and the Internet came along to undercut our prices.”
“There were 5,500 independent electrical shops like us across the UK in 1996 and now there are fewer than 2,000 so we’re not alone in facing these problems.”
“I’ve been breaking even and just covering the costs for a while now, but at my age it’s time to step down. I intend to spend lots of time relaxing with my family.”
He added: “I thank all our customers for their greatly-appreciated support over the years.”
