Family-run shoe shop 'devastated' at closure

The shop on Uttoxter High Street closed on Thursday

A shoe shop which has operated in Uttoxeter for almost 40 years has closed, blaming the decline of high streets and rising costs.

Friary Shoes said it had faced many challenges since the pandemic, and with the cost of living crisis "people are worried about food and heating and a pair of new shoes has become less of a necessity".

The store, which said it was part of a 120-year-old family-run footwear retail business, closed on Thursday.

"We are absolutely devastated that we have had to do this, but we just cannot continue to lose money consistently month after month," a spokesperson said.

It said as a small family business it had "tried our hardest" to keep going.

"The cost of running a business has risen so much in the past two years alone it has become harder and harder to survive," the store, which also has a base in Lichfield, said.

'Downturn in footfall'

"The budget in October means yet another blow to small businesses, with the increases in the minimum wage, rise in employer national insurance contributions and the rise in business rates.

"Unfortunately with the current climate and downturn in footfall and the extra costs we face from 1 April we have had to seek external advice and make an extremely difficult decision to restructure our business."

The business said it was "immensely grateful to each and every person who has shopped and supported us over the years".

"It really has been a honour to be part of Uttoxeter for all these years.

"To all our incredible staff, you have all been absolutely amazing we are so grateful for all your hard work and support over the years."