Suttons Carpet and Furniture Centre, a family-owned homeware store on Wickford High Street in Essex, has confirmed it will close after 80 years of trading. The business, established in the 1940s, was set up in the front room of the family home and later grew into a physical store, now run by the fourth generation of the Sutton family.
Closing announced on Facebook
Owners shared a statement on the business's Facebook page, saying: "After 8 decades Sutton's is sadly closing the doors to its Wickford store. Our management are retiring and us as staff and our wider community wish them all well in their next chapter."
S.H. Suttons Ltd originally sold everyday essentials including vinegar, firelighters, blue bags, wheelbarrows, and paraffin, which were delivered to homes for heating. In the 1990s, a fire badly damaged the building, forcing the business to trade from a shed on the front pavement, according to Echo News.
Customers call closure a 'big loss'
The store has a 4.7-star rating on Google, with reviews noting that staff are "attentive and helpful" and highly recommending the shop. Customers described the news as a "big loss for the town" but wished the owners well on their retirement.
A closing-down sale has now been launched, with a spokesperson noting that "store discounts now on...all items must go!" Customers have been urged not to "miss out on some great bargains". The business has assured customers that outstanding orders will be fulfilled, saying: "Operations will continue from our warehouse so rest assured if you have orders with us everything is safe. Thank you for all your support over the years."
