The founder and chief executive officer of a well-known British high street clothing retailer has issued a statement following the company’s decision to shut its Kendal store.
Joules closed its Kendal premises at 31 Stricklandgate on July 11.
The retailer’s founder Tom Joule has now spoken out about the closure, issuing an official statement to The Westmorland Gazette explaining the move.
“After a thorough review of our retail operations, we’ve made the difficult decision to close our Kendal store,” said Mr Joule.
“This decision reflects changes in our commercial agreements.
“However, we remain committed to our loyal customers in Kendal and would welcome them at our nearby stores at Bakewell, Ambleside, Keswick and Kirkby Lonsdale.”
Despite the Kendal store’s closure, it is understood that Joules claims it is currently experiencing a period of economic growth across its business.
Joules in Kendal has been a memorable piece of the town’s high street DNA in recent years.
Since the store closed its doors to shoppers on July 11, Kendalians walking down Stricklandgate might have noticed the large banners that appear on the shop front’s windows.
The banners read: “This store is CLOSED. We’d love to see you at our nearest location in Bowness-on-Windermere.
“Or you can visit us at joules.com for delivery to your home, any Joules store or 500 other locations.”
Workers from Joules could be seen clearing away clothing and other items from the shop on Sunday (July 12) and Monday (July 13) – the store is now empty.
A “To Let” sign has also appeared on the shop’s exterior, marketed by Edwin Thompson.
Joules’ departure from the Kendal high street is another blow to the town’s shopping offering.
In the last year, the likes of Jules B, Lakeland Leather and Bodycare have all shut up shop.
However, last month, the national clothing retailer Seasalt Cornwall announced that it would be opening a new store in Kendal in August.
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