Family-run department store to shut after 57 years

A home furniture shop will be shut down and placed into administration next month after serving customers for nearly six decades.

Barretts of Woodbridge, on Thoroughfare in Woodbridge, Suffolk, has announced "with a heavy heart" that it will cease trading on 7 May after 57 years.

The family-run furnishings store was opened in 1969 by couple Ann and Jacket Barrett, with the help of their friend and investor Charles Gill.

Their daughter, Jill Barrett, who runs the business today, said that changing shopping habits and rising bills had contributed to the shop's financial difficulties.

"Barretts' sales have not kept up with rising costs which have soared in recent years, and this has led to the unfortunate position we are now in," she said.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed running Barretts, and we would like to thank the local community and our friends and colleagues who have been a constant support to us.

"To all those who helped to make Barretts special, we will always remember you. All have been brilliant and you have our deepest gratitude."

In 2024, Rightmove ranked Woodbridge as the happiest place to live in Britain, with people living locally telling the BBC that it was "wonderful" and was an appealing day out for tourists.

"Whilst the history and beauty of Woodbridge has remained the same, shopping habits have undoubtedly changed," added Barrett.

"Out of town retail parks have made shopping easy and attractive, and online shopping continues to dominate the market."

Barretts of Woodbridge said all outstanding orders would be honoured and delivered despite the closure of the business.

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