A popular homestore in a thriving UK city will close after 19 years. Bert’s Homestore, on Western Road in Brighton, will shut in March, reports say.
Property agents Flude say the building will be available for a new tenant from April. A spokesperson for Bert's Homestore confirmed that the Western Road branch will close when its lease ends, but said its three other branches will not be affected. Bert’s Homestore was founded in 2005, with its Western Road shop opening in 2007.
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The spokesperson said: “With the lease on our Western Road store ending in March, we will be closing that location - while continuing to invest in and grow our other branches across Brighton, Hove, and Worthing.
“This change allows us to focus on serving our customers even better from our remaining stores, where we look forward to welcoming them as always.”
The shop has three other branches: George Street in Hove, Kensington Gardens in Brighton, and Montague Street in Worthing.
On social media, one person wrote: “Now that is a real shame.”
Another penned: “I would like to see more of these types of shops in town, not closing them.”
A third person wrote: “Gutted, we love going to that one.”
The business describes itself as “independent and local” and says it sells “fabulous things to kit out your home.”
On its website, it says: “Established in 2005, Bert’s has created a unique retail experience full of all kinds of fabulous things to kit out your home.
“Selling a vibrant and inspired mix of cookware, home accessories, gifts and retro toys, our brilliant team of knowledgeable staff are always on hand to welcome you and offer sound advice when you need it.
“We’re passionate about our stores and are committed to sourcing exciting products from both the UK and across the globe – hopefully stuff you won’t find anywhere else.
“Our mission is to only sell the things that we love, things that are well-made and things that are beautifully designed.”
Flude said that the premises will be available to let for £52,000 a year, from April.
It described the site as being in a “prime location near Churchill Square shopping centre,” with “high footfall and excellent local amenities.”
“The property comprises a predominantly open plan ground floor retail unit, with a WC and kitchen towards the rear of the property,” the listing adds.
