A designer shop in Nottinghamshire has announced its closing after 22 years of being on the high street. Platinum Menswears on Exchange Street in Retford is expected to close in mid-June.
The rent increasing and dwindling footfall in the town and future surgery has meant that owner, Dave Lawson, has to close his shop.
As reported by Lincolnshire Live, Mr Lawson confirmed the closure in a social media post on Tuesday, May 16, he wrote: "It is with great sadness we announce that after 22 years of trading in Retford we will be closing the store in the town.
Do you agree with the tram fares rising in Nottingham? Let us know
“We have not been able to agree to new lease terms on the premises [and,] in the current economic climate, we were not prepared to commit to a substantial rental increase and a long-term lease on the shop.
"The decreasing footfall in the town over the last 18 months, aligned with the news I will be having major ankle surgery and will need to be off work for a few months, have helped us come to the decision not to seek alternative retail premises." Though the brick-and-mortar store will be closing, Platinum Designwear will continue to trade online, Mr Lawson said.
Support from shoppers and residents came flooding in after Dave shared the news of the closure. One customer wrote: "Sorry to hear that, Dave.
"Retford has a big hole to fill now." Another said that it would be a 'great loss for the town,' while others said the town was destined to be 'full of empty shops'.
One resident lamented the cost of running a business in the town, saying: "The rental prices in Retford are disgusting. I don’t know how anyone is expected to make a decent living in town."
Mr Lawson took the time to thank his customers. He added: "We have been lucky enough to have met some fantastic customers and made some great friends through trading in the shop."
Platinum, which sells brands such as Farah, Weekend Offender, and Lyle & Scott, opened in 2001. Customers will need to redeem any outstanding gift vouchers by the end of May.
A final closing date has not yet been confirmed, but Mr Lawson said he expected it to be in mid-June.
READ NEXT:
Nottingham City Council in 'positive' talks for summer event to celebrate Notts County FC promotion
Police appeal after school children and teachers abused on the tram
Nottingham Forest ready to take £100m action in worst-case scenario
New cameras in 17 locations to clamp down on drivers in bus stops and bus lanes
