Family-run Lawsons puts Devon shops up for sale after 120 years

Lawsons formed in 1904 and has three shops in Devon

Bosses of a family-run hardware business hope its shops can stay open after putting them all up for sale.

Lawsons, which has been running for 120 years, has put its stores in Tavistock, Totnes and Ivybridge on the market.

Managing director Liz Lawson said the decision had been taken as they do not have a next generation to hand it over to.

Ms Lawson, who is the fourth generation of her family to run the firm, said she had mixed emotions about selling it.

LISTEN: Liz Lawson speaks to BBC Radio Devon about the decision

Her great-grandad Tom opened Lawsons' first store in Plymouth in 1904 as a tools merchants for the Devonport Dockyard and apprentice craftsmen.

The business grew over the years to sell toys, including model steam engines, and kitchen items.

While its original Plymouth shop has closed, Lawsons kept three stores open in Devon.

Will be like 'handing over a baby'

Ms Lawson said while the retail world has changed a lot in recent years due to the internet and Covid-19's impact on shopping, having a presence on the High Street was still important.

"I've always been a passionate High Street retailer," Ms Lawson said.

"I think high streets are a key part to our communities and without them I think we'll be lost."

She added it will feel like "handing over a baby" to whoever ends up buying the shop.

Ms Lawson also said she hoped the new owners could preserve the jobs of the staff working for the company.

She said: "It is unsettling for them and I do really appreciate that, but I hope they trust me to find the right person to hand it over to."