A POPULAR retail chain has been forced to close nearly all of its stores across the UK – leaving customers devastated.
Winfields, an outdoor clothing and equipment store, announced earlier this week it would be after.
The popular brand has revealed it will be closing all of its UK stores bar one in Haslingden, Lancashire where it is also headquartered.
Chester, Redditch, , , Keswick and Swadlingcote in have all been forced to shut up shop after years serving the local community.
Founded in the 1970s, Winfields has been a “long-established company” in the area.
Despite its popularity among locals though, the small hiking brand has suffered financials losses which are believed to have driven the brand's recent store closures.
Devastated locals jumped onto social media to express their sadness over the recent , with one calling it her “favourite shop” and another saying, “gutted, loved looking at tents”.
One heartbroken resident called the shop closures an enormous “shame” whilst another reminisced about the time she would “drive miles just to get there”.
Reassuring locals, a store spokesperson said it would still be running the company online and a shop in Haslingden will remain open.
In a statement posted on , Winfields said: “Although some of our stores have closed, our website is running smoothly, and our Haslingden store remains open, ready to help you find all your outdoor gear need.
“We’re grateful for your continued support, and despite some recent rumours, the company is still running.”;
Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Council, also expressed her dismay over the announcement, showing concern for those facing inevitable job loss.
“It’s a great pity to hear this. “They have been a long-established company in the area – it is never good to hear about companies closing down and people losing their .
“It’s an incredibly challenging environment at the moment, and small businesses, such as Winfields, probably feel it more keenly than some of those that have a bigger online presence.”;
Meanwhile, Haslingden ward's Councillor Marilyn Procter called the news “sad” and a “worry” for worker impacted by the closures.
She said: “It’s sad news! It’s a well-established and respected that has been operating in the valley for many years. It’s sad they are in this position.
“The impact this will have on the workers is a concern and a worry. It’s a tough time for all small businesses at the moment.
“It’s quite upsetting, and we feel for everyone involved in this.
“The business has been a big part of the local community and some events we run, including those around .”;
