Topic ID 5709
Following the David Perkins link from the Discover Hertford home page provides an insight into retail units either currently empty or due to close. http://www.david-perkins.co.uk/property_list.asp Loftcat, Botsfords, Peters Table and Scarlet Rose all look set to close soon.
Reply ID 78693
The Closing Down Sale signs have been up in Loftcat for a couple of months now
Reply ID 78694
Peters table has only just opened!
Reply ID 78695
quote:It's actually just over a year ago http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=665
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
Peters table has only just opened!
Reply ID 78696
quote:Note the two shops either side of Peters Table in the photo both closed in 2010 as well.
Originally posted by Stevequote:It's actually just over a year ago http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=665
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
Peters table has only just opened!
Reply ID 78697
Sorry, that's what I meant in that its not been there two mins and is already closing. I guess its got a lot to do with the very high rates and rent charged in Hertford. I mean £36,000 pa not including insurance, set up costs, stock etc etc. You'll need to be turning over at least £80,000+ to start to see a return during the start up years. I think they took over the Starfish contract which is probably coming to an end and seeing the increase in rent has probably put them off staying. No wonder a lot of independent shops are closing in town.
Reply ID 78698
quote:Aren't they all owned by the same landlord too?
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Note the two shops either side of Peters Table in the photo both closed in 2010 as well.
Originally posted by Stevequote:It's actually just over a year ago http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=665
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
Peters table has only just opened!
Reply ID 78699
The problem for Peter's Table IMHO is that many of the cheapo shops sell kitchenware, leaving PT to service the higher end of the market. However, not even a prime location can make up for the fact that the market there is too small. Collanders couldn't make it work in WGC and I fear the same is true for Peter's Table here.
Reply ID 78700
What does seem to work in Hertford is beauty shops and hairdressers...... I agree a lot of the local independent stores seem to be struggling at the moment. I guess its got a lot to do with the recession and people are not wanting to part with their money unless necessary.
Reply ID 78701
quote:Colanders did reasonably in WGC, moving from their first shop in the Howard Centre to a larger unit outside the main centree. They then expanded, opening a shop in St Albans. I had a chat with the owner before they moved out of the Howard Centre and he asked what Hertford was like as he was considering opening a shop in the town. Now they just have a single, in Hitchin, and their on line business.
Originally posted by Steve
The problem for Peter's Table IMHO is that many of the cheapo shops sell kitchenware, leaving PT to service the higher end of the market. However, not even a prime location can make up for the fact that the market there is too small. Collanders couldn't make it work in WGC and I fear the same is true for Peter's Table here.
Reply ID 78702
Charlottes is now empty following her relocation.
Reply ID 78704
I liked Peters Table, shame to see it going
Reply ID 78705
Do these Landlords need or make any money, how can they afford to leave them empty ??!! I dont know much at all about the running of retail shops/costs etc but why are the rents so high ?
Reply ID 78706
quote:I liked Peters Table but despite going in there several times I never saw anything I actually wanted to buy.
Originally posted by Sargasso
I liked Peters Table, shame to see it going
Reply ID 78707
quote:maybe even with low occupancy they still make money? Certainly no one has ever met a landlord who isnt very well off!!!
Originally posted by Frenchie
Do these Landlords need or make any money, how can they afford to leave them empty ??!! I dont know much at all about the running of retail shops/costs etc but why are the rents so high ?
Reply ID 78708
I'd rather have the shops filled and if I was a landlord would probably offer a staggered rent ie low cost at the beginning to help the business start up rising to the maximum over the 5yr period of the contract. In that time after 5 yrs the business would hopefully be established and could then afford to pay the huge rent that some landlords demand in Hertford. I'd rather shops trading than empty. Walking through Maidenhead St is a joke currently.
Reply ID 78709
Riverside Garden Centre, in their kitchen department, offers a similar product range to Peter's Table and with the added benefit of ample, free parking. Perhaps the local market in balloon whisks and garlic presses is saturated?
Reply ID 78720
Can anyone tell me anything about that shop that has replaced the deli next to Peter's Table, called 'Vintage' something or other? What does it sell? The window display is very pretty but rather baffling, could anyone shed any light please?
Reply ID 78721
quote:http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=862
Originally posted by Rachel
Can anyone tell me anything about that shop that has replaced the deli next to Peter's Table, called 'Vintage' something or other? What does it sell? The window display is very pretty but rather baffling, could anyone shed any light please?
Reply ID 78723
quote:Seems to be the link for the audio shop.
Originally posted by Stevequote:http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=862
Originally posted by Rachel
Can anyone tell me anything about that shop that has replaced the deli next to Peter's Table, called 'Vintage' something or other? What does it sell? The window display is very pretty but rather baffling, could anyone shed any light please?
Reply ID 78724
quote:Read it. [:)]
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Seems to be the link for the audio shop.
Originally posted by Stevequote:http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=862
Originally posted by Rachel
Can anyone tell me anything about that shop that has replaced the deli next to Peter's Table, called 'Vintage' something or other? What does it sell? The window display is very pretty but rather baffling, could anyone shed any light please?
Reply ID 78741
Rates too high, car park closed for most of 2010, people watching their pennies, no pay on return in car parks. But I think the main reason is the likes of Amazon, Play and Ebay. You can purchase pretty much anything you want from those online outlets, for a fraction of the cost than a local outlet. They are the things that are killing local shopping habits. It's my understanding that some shop owners are turning to solely online selling. Why not? If landlords are charging 30k+ per annum then you save that, which can then be spent promoting your online wares. I love the internet, it provides me with an income, entertainment and the ability to connect with people around the world. But.... Unfortunately the internet is what's killing the towns. Not the supermarkets. Just look at all here tonight furiously typing away our frustrations on this forum when 10 years ago we would be saying them down the pub. (Which are also in decline).
Reply ID 78742
quote:Good post TBOH. I don't dispute that rent, rates, disposable income and parking impact on our town centre. However, I would suggest that the impact of the internet and online shopping in particular is more about changing our towns than killing them. Whilst we are now able to access goods from the comfort of our homes, there exist services that require a physical visit. After all, it is repeatedly claimed that we have a generous helping of nail bars, hairdressers and food outlets, all of which require a visit. Someone else mentioned, in a different thread, about our town centre changing to accommodate the retail offerings that our buying habits deserve, which IMHO is a lovely way to describe the relationship between supply and demand when that demand changes over time. You mention the sustainability of pubs and further detail is contained in the thread referring to former public houses, showing the number no longer in existence. Indeed, society changes with technological advances and in addition to the internet, over the last 50 years, innovations in TV/radio/video games and other multi-media have all changed the way in which we access our entertainment. As a consequence, "we" may no longer visit the pub in the same numbers, however Hertford continues to enjoy a wide offering of pubs, bars and restaurants and maintains a vibrant night-time economy. Not all are in decline but those who can't compete or adapt will continue to fail. Over time, alternative uses have been found for the majority of these former pubs, as they have for former banks following changes to retail banking. I expect our empty retail units to re-populate in time, though look forward to debating the pro's and con's of their offerings at Discover Hertford.
Originally posted by thebestofhertford
Rates too high, car park closed for most of 2010, people watching their pennies, no pay on return in car parks. But I think the main reason is the likes of Amazon, Play and Ebay. You can purchase pretty much anything you want from those online outlets, for a fraction of the cost than a local outlet. They are the things that are killing local shopping habits. It's my understanding that some shop owners are turning to solely online selling. Why not? If landlords are charging 30k+ per annum then you save that, which can then be spent promoting your online wares. I love the internet, it provides me with an income, entertainment and the ability to connect with people around the world. But.... Unfortunately the internet is what's killing the towns. Not the supermarkets. Just look at all here tonight furiously typing away our frustrations on this forum when 10 years ago we would be saying them down the pub. (Which are also in decline).
Reply ID 78748
I saw this morning that Sweet Herts in Fore Street are also closing
Reply ID 78749
surely no one is surprised at that. it was doomed from the start i'm afraid - especially given the existing mr. simms and sweet stall on the market etc.
Reply ID 78758
Tht and the fact that I have more sweets in my fridge than they have on their shelves.
Reply ID 78768
Folks, please stop to think a little about the businesses you are commenting on. Whilst it was very unfortunate that the likes of MacDonalds, Methvens and Woolies threw the towel in or went to the wall, each of these little independents ceasing trading often means the ruin of the people involved. It's a very brave decision to chance many years of your life and accumulated wealth on a dream. All too often it seems to go sour. With the inevitable debts accrued, the pain of failure will be with them for some time to come. In an ideal world I'm sure we'd prefer to have a proper butcher, fish monger, green grocer, iron monger, sweet shop, flower shop etc in our town. I think it's much the poorer without, but I salute and support those who try. As an aside, don't touch a pub with a tied lease for love nor money!
Reply ID 78770
I admire anyone who has tried to make their business work. I looked into having a shop in Hertford myself which would have made a lovely addition to the town, but with the rates and all the other bits that go with it I decided that I was much better off spending the money to advertise on google and running it from home. There are some lovely shops in Hertford and I do wonder sometimes how they keep a cheerful front on when they must be struggling! Some of the above post's are spot on with the reason's why some shops are in decline and some other's such as nail bars, restaurant's hairdresser's continue to do well. I guess the arrival of large supermarket's with so much under one roof was the start of the decline years ago. Good luck to all the people behind the shop's that are closing! I hope that you can continue your businesses in another way without too much loss.
Reply ID 78775
quote:You're 100% right. When said supermarket turned up the town changed forever. Anyone who starts a business from home or retail outlet is taking a massive risk and all we can do is by using paths such as this site get behind them. Here here to the independent, use them or lose them.
Originally posted by frazer
I admire anyone who has tried to make their business work. I looked into having a shop in Hertford myself which would have made a lovely addition to the town, but with the rates and all the other bits that go with it I decided that I was much better off spending the money to advertise on google and running it from home. There are some lovely shops in Hertford and I do wonder sometimes how they keep a cheerful front on when they must be struggling! Some of the above post's are spot on with the reason's why some shops are in decline and some other's such as nail bars, restaurant's hairdresser's continue to do well. I guess the arrival of large supermarket's with so much under one roof was the start of the decline years ago. Good luck to all the people behind the shop's that are closing! I hope that you can continue your businesses in another way without too much loss.
Reply ID 78941
quote:Yes, they are owned by the same landlord. Books@ & the deli had leases ending in 2010. PT's lease is also coming to an end. A lease does not have to be the standard 5 years long, negotiations take place between the landlord and tenant over timespan too. The landlord has received planning permission to convert the three retail units into a single unit, it is in his interest to try and get everyone's leases in line so they end at a similar time. If the tenant chooses to continue trading, they need to find another premises. I'd put money on Vintage's lease being a short one.
Originally posted by Bubbaosheaquote:Aren't they all owned by the same landlord too?
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Note the two shops either side of Peters Table in the photo both closed in 2010 as well.
Originally posted by Stevequote:It's actually just over a year ago http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=665
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
Peters table has only just opened!
Reply ID 78945
I think there is more to this than the internet and more our council can be doing to help in terms of parking and business rates. This is evidenced by other town centres that have no where near as many empty shops as ours in East Herts.
Reply ID 78947
quote:Go on then, what is your suggestion as a politician? I went to Ilford, Cambridge and Stevenage over Christmas and it is exactly the same in those towns.
Originally posted by LoucasX
I think there is more to this than the internet and more our council can be doing to help in terms of parking and business rates. This is evidenced by other town centres that have no where near as many empty shops as ours in East Herts.
Reply ID 79022
I think its a combination of the economic situation in the UK at the moment, bad and/or poor planning decisions by councils in relation to carparking and traffic management in towns and also the internet, plus some of Hertford's landowning fraternity seem to delight in charge exorbitant rents.. need I say anymore allegedly! So to remedy this I a) try and shop local if/when I can b) the internet aint that good when the weather's bad for delivering items on time and a nightmare to send things back if not right or don't fit and so I don't always use this and c) I try to walk into town to save my pennies to spend in the shops I want to support. I have no doubt things will pick up but we live in a changing world where we like fast, quick convenient fixes but the price of that is our towns/villages are changing forever. Unless we all pull together it will get worse, but what little I can do I will continue to do in my favourite town.....
Reply ID 79326
I see Perrins has a for sale board outside. Are we going to have another empty shop
Reply ID 79356
quote:The For Sale board refers to the flat above the shop.
Originally posted by deirdre
I see Perrins has a for sale board outside. Are we going to have another empty shop
Reply ID 79361
quote:I may be wrong but I think the owners of Perrins barbers live there currently........I see them leave on their way to Mill Mead school often. The web site for the barbers doesn't suggest that the shop itself is due to close.
Originally posted by Artyquote:The For Sale board refers to the flat above the shop.
Originally posted by deirdre
I see Perrins has a for sale board outside. Are we going to have another empty shop
Reply ID 79363
The for sale sign was for the whole property. I saw it in the mercury
Reply ID 79366
quote:It is only the maisonette, as posted on Steven Oates website: http://www.stevenoates.com/propertypreview.php?uvid=21910826 I can't imagine that Dave will be happy if rumours persist that he is closing.
Originally posted by deirdre
The for sale sign was for the whole property. I saw it in the mercury
Reply ID 79374
I saw the advert on the web/rightmove ? - whole building, it mentioned the ground floor shop footage and basement details etc Sounds like he has changed his mind or the estate agent got it very,very wrong (doubt it)
Reply ID 79378
Here's the ad on Rightmove. No mention of the ground floor business premises. 1st and 2nd floors only. http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-17901672.html
Reply ID 79386
Well last week the shop and basement were also for sale including the flat for £375,000
Reply ID 79388
Isn't it possible that the shop and flat are rented? So they can still stay there if their lease has not run out, or if the new owner renews it.
Reply ID 79401
quote:Yes, thats what I saw.
Originally posted by deirdre
Well last week the shop and basement were also for sale including the flat for £375,000
Reply ID 79765
quote:Start off by pay on exit car parks and more 30 minute free street parking spaces like they have in Ware. Also need to take a holistic approach to busines rates recognising that shops attracts shoppers and brings money (therefore jobs) in to our towns so has a payback in terms of reduced unemployment and less crime etc. But I say that as a resident not a politician. Apart from a 4 month period last year I have never been politically active and even then I have never been a member of a political party. Just wish normal people would get more involved so we were not in the hands of career politicians all the time.
Originally posted by James007quote:Go on then, what is your suggestion as a politician? I went to Ilford, Cambridge and Stevenage over Christmas and it is exactly the same in those towns.
Originally posted by LoucasX
I think there is more to this than the internet and more our council can be doing to help in terms of parking and business rates. This is evidenced by other town centres that have no where near as many empty shops as ours in East Herts.
Reply ID 79768
quote:Let's hope people vote to change the voting system in May so we break up the stranglehold of the main parties a bit and give more hope to independents like yourself!
Originally posted by LoucasX
But I say that as a resident not a politician. Apart from a 4 month period last year I have never been politically active and even then I have never been a member of a political party. Just wish normal people would get more involved so we were not in the hands of career politicians all the time.
Reply ID 79769
quote:Will AV also be for local elections? I thought only parliamentary elections would go to AV if the referendum is passed?
Originally posted by newcomerquote:Let's hope people vote to change the voting system in May so we break up the stranglehold of the main parties a bit and give more hope to independents like yourself!
Originally posted by LoucasX
But I say that as a resident not a politician. Apart from a 4 month period last year I have never been politically active and even then I have never been a member of a political party. Just wish normal people would get more involved so we were not in the hands of career politicians all the time.
Reply ID 79799
quote:Yes, sorry I was referring to the fact that LoucasX was a (good IMHO) candidate at the last General Election. Hopefully though if we get AV for parliamentary elections we might move on to reforming the system for local elections. One could argue they is even more of an argument for a responsive system at a local level.
Originally posted by Ray_by_the_Beane
Will AV also be for local elections? I thought only parliamentary elections would go to AV if the referendum is passed?
Reply ID 79853
Although we appear to be going slightly off topic I agree that there needs to be of a balance at local level. Who benefits from having 14 of the 16 Councillors representing one political party?
Reply ID 80049
We can now add Dewing Designs to the list. There's a sign in the window announcing he will be running the business from home as he can no longer afford to lease the shop.
Reply ID 80052
[V]
Reply ID 80056
quote:A shame but I confess that after getting a quote from them for a new kitchen I went elsewhere due to the cost. A thoroughly decent chap and I really want to use local businesses, but the cost was prohibitive. Perhaps the overheads of running a shop in the middle of the town contributed to the costs and I hope he does well.
Originally posted by Golden
We can now add Dewing Designs to the list. There's a sign in the window announcing he will be running the business from home as he can no longer afford to lease the shop.
Reply ID 80326
I wonder how long it will be before Blockbuster closes? On April 4th 2011, the company is closing 185 stores in the US after filing for bankruptcy.
Reply ID 80327
quote:I'm amazed they've lasted this long.
Originally posted by James007
I wonder how long it will be before Blockbuster closes? On April 4th 2011, the company is closing 185 stores in the US after filing for bankruptcy.
Reply ID 80328
On then plus side, Botsford's are re-opening on Saturday under new management.
Reply ID 80329
Trading at its UK DVD rental chain in 2010 had been "satisfactory, taking into account the effects of the World Cup and some periods of unseasonably warm and dry weather in the second quarter", said accounts filed at Companies House. For the year to 3 January, Blockbuster UK saw its pre-tax profits increase by 52 per cent to £4.56m, but turnover fell by 10 per cent to £262.8m. The company stressed it was not part of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy-protection process of of its US parent, Blockbuster Inc.
Reply ID 80433
I see that the discount store with no name in Bircheley Green now has a big Closing Down sign in the window
Reply ID 80439
quote:I was in there yesterday admiring an array of tools I never knew existed. The owner was chatting to someone and blaming the rates for having to close.
Originally posted by Andrew
I see that the discount store with no name in Bircheley Green now has a big Closing Down sign in the window
Reply ID 80459
quote:Might he possibly have known the rates when he moved in? I have recurring nightmares about ours...
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:I was in there yesterday admiring an array of tools I never knew existed. The owner was chatting to someone and blaming the rates for having to close.
Originally posted by Andrew
I see that the discount store with no name in Bircheley Green now has a big Closing Down sign in the window
Reply ID 80460
quote:I guess you are right. Before starting any business you have to have a sound business plan and know what your costs are whether your projected income will cover them and provide you with the income and cashflow you require. Put like that it would seem that it is more a case of not making sufficient profit from the store.
Originally posted by Artyquote:Might he possibly have known the rates when he moved in? I have recurring nightmares about ours...
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:I was in there yesterday admiring an array of tools I never knew existed. The owner was chatting to someone and blaming the rates for having to close.
Originally posted by Andrew
I see that the discount store with no name in Bircheley Green now has a big Closing Down sign in the window
Reply ID 80476
quote:Sorry to hear its closing...a useful shop with pleasant and courteous staff.
Originally posted by Andrew
I see that the discount store with no name in Bircheley Green now has a big Closing Down sign in the window
Reply ID 81001
BBC Website reporting that Focus DIY are seeking administration..
Reply ID 81002
Ouch - though I can't say that I'm surprised as it must be one of the most poorly managed organisations in the country! I once told one of the staff that a 'customer' had loaded his pockets up with items and was informed that unless they had actually seen them there was nothing they could do! I hope that they are either brought out (unlikely?) or that the unit is occupied quickly before it returns to being a free car park for commuters. I've added the address for the link to the story below. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13283501
Reply ID 81003
quote:http://uk.reuters.com/article/2011/05/04/uk-focus-diy-idUKTRE7434AS20110504
Originally posted by Arty
BBC Website reporting that Focus DIY are seeking administration..
Reply ID 81004
does this mean that there'll be a fire-sale at their stores?
Reply ID 81006
quote:Couldn't agree more. This is entirely self-inflicted. Their logistics and stock control have always been dreadful. Items out of stock all over the place. Every empty peg or shelf is a lost sale. Surprised they've lasted as long as they have. I'll start a new thread about this as we appear to have drifted somewhat from the original topic. Any further comments here please http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13283501
Originally posted by Golden
Ouch - though I can't say that I'm surprised as it must be one of the most poorly managed organisations in the country! http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13283501
Reply ID 81072
Last day for Modish in Maidenhead Street. http://twitter.com/#!/ShoesieQ
Reply ID 81073
quote:That isn't going to be an empty shop is it[?] Judging by this http://twitter.com/#!/ShoesieQ Modish was a concession within the shop known as Maiden. Or is Maiden closing too?
Originally posted by Enoughofthat
Last day for Modish in Maidenhead Street. http://twitter.com/#!/ShoesieQ
Reply ID 81479
Disappointed to see that Dilemma in St.Andrew Street appear to have shut up shop over the weekend.
Reply ID 81898
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 81899
quote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 81900
The Woodstore in Old Cross has also closed.
Reply ID 81901
quote:I think that said relocating, not sure where to though. If the man in the computer shop was still coming down from his home in Norfolk I think it was I would think the travelling would be too much
Originally posted by Steve
The Woodstore in Old Cross has also closed.
Reply ID 81906
The lad that worked in the Computer Shop had relocated from Yeovil. He will be trying to start his own business, starting from his home in Ware, but looking for a small retail unit to rent. He seems a decent lad and wants to work - good luck to him.
Reply ID 81908
I wish him the best too. I only wish I had more business to put their way. They outstripped PCWORLD every time.
Reply ID 81909
quote:Only for insurance purposes [}:)]
Originally posted by thefair1973
does this mean that there'll be a fire-sale at their stores?
Reply ID 81937
quote:Anyone have any recommendations for other local computer repair people, especially any that would make home visits/
Originally posted by jamesquote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 81940
quote:Chris Hawkins (07753 995391) has been mentioned many times on this Forum, and I'm still pleased to repeat his details. Calm, knowledgeable, efficient and friendly.[:)]
Originally posted by Ray_by_the_Beanequote:Anyone have any recommendations for other local computer repair people, especially any that would make home visits/
Originally posted by jamesquote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 81945
I noticed today the little gift shop opposite Waitrose has also gone .
Reply ID 81949
quote:http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=939
Originally posted by Marilyn
I noticed today the little gift shop opposite Waitrose has also gone .
Reply ID 81963
quote:OOOPs should learn to read!
Originally posted by Stevequote:http://www.hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=939
Originally posted by Marilyn
I noticed today the little gift shop opposite Waitrose has also gone .
Reply ID 81967
quote:Thank you very much.
Originally posted by Artyquote:Anyone have any recommendations for other local computer repair people, especially any that would make home visits/ Chris Hawkins (07753 995391) has been mentioned many times on this Forum, and I'm still pleased to repeat his details. Calm, knowledgeable, efficient and friendly.[:)]
Originally posted by Ray_by_the_Beanequote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by james
[quote]Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 82032
http://uk.businessesforsale.com/uk/Olde-Sweet-Shoppe-In-Hertfordshire-For-Sale.aspx Wonder if they're cashing in or out. Looks great as a shop, no idea how volumes, margins and cashflow stack up in the sweet business as it's a normally a low value transaction. Thorntons are scaling back on their own estate and looking for in store concessions.
Reply ID 82033
quote:Two statements stand out here: "The current owner does not work in the shop himself" and "A working owner could seriously increase takings", as well as "Reasons for selling: other business interests".
Originally posted by Mack E. Avelly
http://uk.businessesforsale.com/uk/Olde-Sweet-Shoppe-In-Hertfordshire-For-Sale.aspx Wonder if they're cashing in or out. Looks great as a shop, no idea how volumes, margins and cashflow stack up in the sweet business as it's a normally a low value transaction. Thorntons are scaling back on their own estate and looking for in store concessions.
Reply ID 82059
Question: If reasons for selling are other business interests, why would someone sell a business in relative infancy? Speculative answer: It ain't making any money? Just a guess of course.
Reply ID 82104
quote:Hey there guys. I'm the young chap that worked in The Computer Shop. Unfortunately due to circumstances out of my control the shop had to close. Since it has closed i have set up at home and now taking repairs and selling computers as The Computer Shop would of. I'm hoping that one day in the not so distant future that i will be able to open up a new shop, but at the moment i just have to see how it goes. I won't bore you all with a sales pitch or anything, I'll just point the direction of my website in progress... [url]http://www.totalrepairherts.co.uk[/url] and ask that if you hear of any jobs that would of suited The Computer Shop then please send them my way. Any help advertising would be much appreciated, If anyone has something they can help me with that I'll be extremely grateful.
Originally posted by Ray_by_the_Beanequote:Anyone have any recommendations for other local computer repair people, especially any that would make home visits/
Originally posted by jamesquote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 82115
quote:Thanks Dan.....I always found the shop very useful and the guys there knowledgable and helpful. I wish you luck.
Originally posted by Computer Danquote:Hey there guys. I'm the young chap that worked in The Computer Shop. Unfortunately due to circumstances out of my control the shop had to close. Since it has closed i have set up at home and now taking repairs and selling computers as The Computer Shop would of. I'm hoping that one day in the not so distant future that i will be able to open up a new shop, but at the moment i just have to see how it goes. I won't bore you all with a sales pitch or anything, I'll just point the direction of my website in progress... [url]http://www.fix-IT-Computing.com[/url] and ask that if you hear of any jobs that would of suited The Computer Shop then please send them my way. Any help advertising would be much appreciated, If anyone has something they can help me with that I'll be extremely grateful.
Originally posted by Ray_by_the_Beanequote:Anyone have any recommendations for other local computer repair people, especially any that would make home visits/
Originally posted by jamesquote:Booo. I liked that place and used it often.
Originally posted by Billywindsock
The Computer Shop in Railway St will close on Tuesday. Shame.
Reply ID 82116
I too wish you well, I was pleased with the service you provided for me.
Reply ID 82210
quote:A Bridalware shop is a possibilty here, allegedly.
Originally posted by Arty
Disappointed to see that Dilemma in St.Andrew Street appear to have shut up shop over the weekend.
Reply ID 82214
I noticed the windows are now covered in brown paper and assumed there would be new occupants.
Reply ID 82279
I have been reading through this post and find it strange that there has been no mention of the possibility of any chains coming in to Hertford. People like NEXT, Topshop, etc... I know in the past that the Council have not wanted them to come in as they didn't want to turn in to a 'new town' like all of the others, but Hertford is now dying on it's feet. There is no day trade at all and even the market traders are not turning up on Saturdays. The old McDonalds building has been empty for well over 5 years now and I can't believe that no one has shown any interest in it! I applaud the fact that Hertford want to develop and promote smaller, local, traders ... but unfortunately there are three major issues, that I can see, to keeping to this idea: 1) The rents are too high for the new small businesses in Hertford, as mentioned before. 2) As they are small businesses, the prices are generally more expensive that the 'High Street' stores, so they have a very limited clientele. 3) They are simply not prominent enough to bring the people in to the town during the day. Hertford has now become a town of haridressers, beauty salons, coffee shops ... and the current trend seems to be to allow more of the 'cheap and cheerful' stores in town, such as Poundstretcher, the shop that was opposite Waitrose and the cheap card shop in Bircheley Green. Would it really be that bad if we brought in a 'high street' store to the old McDonalds building? If it was a clothes retailer, surely it would bring in other customers from the area who may then go into all of the boutiques when they wouldn't have before? I believe the ideal would be to have a massive flagship store in town that would help boost trade again … ideally if Apple decided to open up 'local' versions of their stores. They would be a massive draw to the town, there are no stores like it in the area and at the moment people need to travel to London, Lakeside, Brent Cross or Cambridge to visit one. Obviously this would be a massive best case scenario, but Hertford needs something to kick start the growth here. I have lived in Hertford all of my life, and I have an office in the town centre, but when I need to go shopping I go to Welwyn, Stevenage, Brookfield Centre and Harlow as I know I can get what I need at a reasonable price. Anyway, ramblings over … but does anyone know why we can't these kind of places in to the town? Hertford is now a night destination, not a day destination.
Reply ID 82281
We just do not have the large shops for chains to want to come to Hertford, its all very well having Next etc... but if they are only small branches people will still end up travelling to the larger stores to get the selection and choice that they need.
Reply ID 82309
Retailers select shop locations based on existing 'draw' retail markets, not to be the pathfinder or to save a town. There is nothing here to draw in the big boys.
Reply ID 82545
quote:I think you are correct Mr. P. well apart from the rumours and Twitter posts.
Originally posted by Mr P
Retailers select shop locations based on existing 'draw' retail markets, not to be the pathfinder or to save a town. There is nothing here to draw in the big boys.
Reply ID 82764
Another one to add to the list - Marshalls in Fore St. I know its no favourite of some on here but I've got on well with them following a bad start a number of years ago! http://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/Hertfordshire/Hertford-bike-shop-to-close-after-16-years-22082011.htm
Reply ID 82765
quote:But if Highway cycles were to move in, as the mercury suggests, that would be like for like and over many years I know which of the two bike shops I prefer so would not be unhappy
Originally posted by Golden
Another one to add to the list - Marshalls in Fore St. I know its no favourite of some on here but I've got on well with them following a bad start a number of years ago! http://www.hertfordshiremercury.co.uk/Hertfordshire/Hertford-bike-shop-to-close-after-16-years-22082011.htm
Reply ID 82766
Reading the article I can't see Highway moving into that shop, I think the owner is giving a good politicians answer to the question. I'd be more than happy to see them come over to Hertford: I've done some business with them before and found them to be helpful and efficient.
Reply ID 82775
It says that Highway Cycles may be "filling the gap", not taking over the shop.
Reply ID 82777
Computer shop gone. Marshalls going. I now have no reason to come into town other than to buy coffee and get a haircut.
Reply ID 82779
quote:Best place to buy coffee=Poundstretcher, a new business which replaced one which, though excellent in other ways, was not a good place to buy coffee. You now have more choice of where to have your hair cut than before. Towns evolve and react to economic and social change. This one seems to be going well for you.[:D]
Originally posted by james
Computer shop gone. Marshalls going. I now have no reason to come into town other than to buy coffee and get a haircut.
Reply ID 82780
Eh? They sell coffee in poundstretcher? The hot, wet kind or the dried, ground kind? I suppose I should be grateful I'll always have somewhere to get my hair cut in Hertford. It's just that I hate getting my hair cut.
Reply ID 82782
quote:Not the ready made stuff just ground or instant.
Originally posted by james
Eh? They sell coffee in poundstretcher? The hot, wet kind or the dried, ground kind? I suppose I should be grateful I'll always have somewhere to get my hair cut in Hertford. It's just that I hate getting my hair cut.
Reply ID 82814
Marshalls closing.....a bike shop blaming parking problems? Hilarious. Marshalls is one of the worst shops I have tried to use in Hertford. I'm sure there are plenty of people who have had good experiences shopping there but I have had nothing but problems. It is a struggle to actually buy something there so it is no wonder they are moving on. I've even resorted to driving to Welwyn Garden City to use their other shop because the Hertford shop was so bad. Last year, trying to buy a bike for my wife, "We'll order it in, mate"......then month after month after month, "Not available yet"......not a single phone call ever to provide an update and every time I had to go in and ask......then they say that they'd phoned and left messages on my voicemail, which was clearly a lie as no messages had been left. Then late Autumn I check again and I am asked to wait for the 2011 stock to arrive. But then in Spring this year I go in to try once again to give them my money in exchange for a bike and find the very bike I'd asked for the previous year and with a sign on it stating, "SALE. 2010 STOCK". HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA So we eventually buy a bike, a year after enquiring, and ask for a basket. They have a basket but no bracket. "We'll order the bracket, sir"........It is now five months later and I have gone into the shop time and time again......."Still on order, sir". It's a bracket for a basket for a bike, not the holy grail! Oh, and going into the shop and being asked if I and my nine year old son want to play 'throw the screwdriver at the cardboard box' was not the most satisfying customer experience. It is sad to see another local and independent shop close. And it is sad if people will lose their employment. However this shop was a total joke.
Reply ID 82818
"Oh, and going into the shop and being asked if I and my nine year old son want to play 'throw the screwdriver at the cardboard box' was not the most satisfying customer experience." Did you miss?????
Reply ID 82819
quote:Admittedly my son was far more accurate than I was.
Originally posted by Golden
"Oh, and going into the shop and being asked if I and my nine year old son want to play 'throw the screwdriver at the cardboard box' was not the most satisfying customer experience." Did you miss?????
Reply ID 82825
I've never been into Marshall's, or known anyone who has. But Ewwoowar, if the service was so horrendous (certainly sounds like it was), WHY did you not go elsewhere? I can see wantinng to buy local, but not against all the odds, and in spite of receiving such poor service time and time again. I have to say I'm getting very bored of Hertford. Walking down Maidenhead Street is so depressing, as is listening to drunk teenagers shouting into the night each weekend. It may be time to look elsewhere for somewhere to live maybe.
Reply ID 82826
The only bright spot in Maidenhead Street these days, making it worth the visit seems to be Poundstretcher - you always seem to get good prices there AND a smile as well! Maybe things will improve when the library opens later in the year, but we will still have to negotiate all those wretched advertising boards which obstruct us every few yards. Are they legal?
Reply ID 82829
quote:I'm pretty sure there is some "old" bylaw that regulates the size, content and how far away from the shop they can be placed. Probably the best place's to ask is either EHDC or in the CAB.
Originally posted by jasmine98
The only bright spot in Maidenhead Street these days, making it worth the visit seems to be Poundstretcher - you always seem to get good prices there AND a smile as well! Maybe things will improve when the library opens later in the year, but we will still have to negotiate all those wretched advertising boards which obstruct us every few yards. Are they legal?
Reply ID 82830
There was a blitz on outside displays and A boards etc at one stage when Wiggintons was still on Old Cross I remember them being told they could not put the stuff outside and the pet shop in Fore Street the same but there seem to be quite a lot of pavement displays and A boards now so maybe it has changed and you are allowed to.
Reply ID 82832
quote:S.137 of the Highways Act 1980 makes it an offence to "without lawful authority or reasonable excuse" obstruct the Highway (which includes the footpath). There was some suggestion that East Herts DC were going to bring in some form of regulation of the boards but don't know if it ever got off the ground.
Originally posted by Marilyn
There was a blitz on outside displays and A boards etc at one stage when Wiggintons was still on Old Cross I remember them being told they could not put the stuff outside and the pet shop in Fore Street the same but there seem to be quite a lot of pavement displays and A boards now so maybe it has changed and you are allowed to.
Reply ID 82837
quote:Or a visually impaired person too.
Originally posted by Joequote:I'm pretty sure there is some "old" bylaw that regulates the size, content and how far away from the shop they can be placed. Probably the best place's to ask is either EHDC or in the CAB.
Originally posted by jasmine98
The only bright spot in Maidenhead Street these days, making it worth the visit seems to be Poundstretcher - you always seem to get good prices there AND a smile as well! Maybe things will improve when the library opens later in the year, but we will still have to negotiate all those wretched advertising boards which obstruct us every few yards. Are they legal?
Reply ID 82851
I wanted to get back on topic re: Marshall's leaving Fore Street. I have a younger brother in his early 40's starting out in mountain biking and at christmas just gone as I know something about the kit etc I decided I didn't really know my brothers' tastes, I'd get him a gift voucher! I had to go back two days later !! to get the voucher as they didn't have any in the till according to the guy running it, the "boss" hadn't delivered them! At the time i said its 3 weeks before xmas, you;ll lose sales.. now the shop is closing. I feel the same about Boots the Chemist, I have tried to get items that all other chemists stock for 5 months now.... I usually prefer Boots because I tend to buy a lot of other items, but now I have given up and spend a bit more cash in one of our other independent chemists in hertford. Any retailers reading this, yes, parking may contribute to difficult trading times BUT if you don't have the stock I need to buy and continually don't you will lose custom and not just mine. I hate to see shops shut but for some I think its their own fault for taking their eyes off the ball....
Reply ID 82853
That was the impression I got with Marshalls. Although they're good at all things bike, it really is a massive problem trying to get stuff in when it's out of stock. They never ring back or just forget to order it in the first place. I've given them a fair bit of business of the years but I learnt early on, if it's not it stock, go somewhere else.
Reply ID 82854
Too many retailers forget that having customers is a privilege, not to be taken for granted.
Reply ID 82859
Strange,I have never had a problem with Marshalls,but I only used them for advice and repairs,they always did repairs quickly and sometimes when it was going to be a 2-3 day wait for a repair they would run through what I needed to do,so I could do it myself. Unfortunately,I did find myself using the Welwyn branch due to the parking in Hertford. It is not easy to take a couple of damaged mountain bikes half way across town and then pick them up again,where as at Welwyn you can park right outside the shop. I hope the guys in the Hertford branch,get moved to the other stores as they really did know their stuff.
Reply ID 82862
quote:I appreciate that they probably know their stuff about bikes but their customer service was awful, at least it was with me.
Originally posted by dutch knight
Strange,I have never had a problem with Marshalls,but I only used them for advice and repairs,they always did repairs quickly and sometimes when it was going to be a 2-3 day wait for a repair they would run through what I needed to do,so I could do it myself. Unfortunately,I did find myself using the Welwyn branch due to the parking in Hertford. It is not easy to take a couple of damaged mountain bikes half way across town and then pick them up again,where as at Welwyn you can park right outside the shop. I hope the guys in the Hertford branch,get moved to the other stores as they really did know their stuff.
Reply ID 82864
Maybe it's just you Ewoowar [:p]
Reply ID 82865
quote:Yeah, maybe.............a year for a bike, 5 months for a bracket for a basket........never calling me, never ordering things, attrocious customer service.......yeah.........
Originally posted by Kitty Kat
Maybe it's just you Ewoowar [:p]
Reply ID 82866
Unfortunately we appear to have lost sight of the O/P and this thread is now being used to discuss any shop opening or closing. These discussions might be better in their own dedicated threads. Therefore, please could I encourage anyone who wants to discuss a specific business to post in the relevant thread or start a new one if necessary. Thankyou. Update: Cool, my 1000th post [:)]
Reply ID 82867
quote:Off topic? [:D]
Originally posted by Admin
Update: Cool, my 1000th post [:)]
Reply ID 82873
It is a shame the shops on The Wash are still empty opposite Hertford Theatre, it has said Sold STC for so long I wonder what the hold up is? I know they have planning permission for development if it goes on too long that will run out!
Reply ID 82885
quote:Try telling the big retailers that - and you know what? You. Keep. Going. Back. How many of you refuse to step foot in one of the big retailers as often as you refuse to revisit the smaller? And how many of you actually stick to your word with the big boys? Convenient, parking right outside, isn't it? 'Trade' is a two way process - the customer is not always right, and the retailer is not always wrong. There's often an arrogantly overlooked symbiosis here.
Originally posted by Steve
Too many retailers forget that having customers is a privilege, not to be taken for granted.
Reply ID 83106
Report on empty shops in town centres coming out soon: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/newsnight/9582631.stm
Reply ID 83112
And here's the answer. http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/politics/politics-headlines/high-street-inquiry-takes-about-four-seconds-201105173826/
Reply ID 83113
How true that is!
Reply ID 83342
quote:Hey There again guys, i know its a litle off topic but i just wanted to let you know that the website and telephone number have changed along with the name of the company. Unfortunately we needed to change the name in order to become ltd. the new website is at [url]http://www.totalrepairherts.co.uk[/url] We are doing pretty well for ourselves but more work is always appreciated. Ok, i'll get back on topic now. The reason i myself didn't go for a shop and went for an office instead is mainly the huge overheads involved. to get a shop in any kind of decent location is a MASSIVE expense and considering the way Hertford is going it is a huge risk to take. With an office we have all the space we need and can perform home visits more efficiently. With a shop i would be bound to it 6 days a week and with the parking involved people are unlikely to bring their computer to me. So now as part of the service we pickup and deliver computers for our customers so they themselves do not have to do a thing. Of course one day I would like to have a shop but unfortunately I don't see it happening very soon, The costs are way to high for local shops and the amount of foot traffic is decreasing. As someone else said, even the saturday market stalls are beginning to go elsewhere and if they disapear then a lot of Saturday traffic will go with it. Can i ask why does Hertford need a Nero, Costa and a Starbucks along with the plethora of local coffee shops? There is all the high end coffee shops but no high end shops to match. And if you type 'Hairdresser Hertford' into google you get 20 results in Hertford alone, how do they all get enough business to survive? most I look in have enough customers but where do they come from and why are they not doing their shopping in Hertford too? The balance in this town is completely wrong.
Originally posted by Computer Dan
Hey there guys. I'm the young chap that worked in The Computer Shop. Unfortunately due to circumstances out of my control the shop had to close. Since it has closed i have set up at home and now taking repairs and selling computers as The Computer Shop would of. I'm hoping that one day in the not so distant future that i will be able to open up a new shop, but at the moment i just have to see how it goes. I won't bore you all with a sales pitch or anything, I'll just point the direction of my website in progress... [url]http://www.totalrepairherts.co.uk[/url] and ask that if you hear of any jobs that would of suited The Computer Shop then please send them my way. Any help advertising would be much appreciated, If anyone has something they can help me with that I'll be extremely grateful.
Reply ID 83343
Good luck with your new venture, Dan...I've bookmarked your new website and will be in touch if and when necessary. It might be an idea to post your details in the 'Crafts and Trades' section of the Forum as well.
Reply ID 83415
As I walked past Age UK this lunchtime I noticed that they've got a closing down sale on.
Reply ID 83588
Ah,haa. AgeUK not closing, just having a refit. http://hertford.net/blog/default.asp?id=990
Reply ID 85803
Does anyone know how many empty shops there are in Hertford town centre?
Reply ID 85805
quote:22 retail premises. Five of these are in The Marquee Centre.
Originally posted by nodnal
Does anyone know how many empty shops there are in Hertford town centre?