Concerns have been raised for the future of a well-known shop chain, as its stores have reportedly been ordered to sell its stock before Christmas. Over the past few weeks, branches of Shaws the Drapers have been selling stock at bargain prices with queues of shoppers snapping up everything from bedding and curtains.
The company, which was formed in Cardiff in 1912, is known for its home accessories and soft furnishings, as well as selling wool and yarn. It is said that it employs over 150 staff and has become a well-known name on many of our high streets.
It has 28 stores listed on its website, including 15 in Wales including in Carmarthen and Swansea and three locations in Cardif, as well as 13 in the south-west of England and the West Midlands. On their Facebook page, shoppers have raised concerns after some of its Welsh stores had seemingly and "unexpectedly" closed, while others who have visited existing stores have said that their shelves seem "bare".
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According to a BBC Wales' report, a letter has been sent to all members of staff, saying that the current trading conditions are "very challenging" and that they are "likely to need to make some changes to the business in the new year".
The BBC also goes on to say that the letter explains that no stock will be ordered to the warehouse before any of the changes are agreed. But there is no mention of store closures or job losses.
Wales Online has approached Shaws Direct for a comment. But according to the BBC Wales, who contacted Philip Shaw - one the owners of the company - he said the company's intention was to "carry on as normal". BBC Wales has been unable to clarify if any of the 28 stores are facing closure.
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