Popular shop set to close in UK city - 13 years in business
The business owner said dwindling high street footfall and rising costs had made it 'impossible' to continue in-person trading.
A popular clothing shop in a UK city will shut next month after "a very difficult trading period". Dog & Bone in York, which opened in the cathedral city 13 years ago, will welcome its final brick-and-mortar customers on June 30, its owner said.
Nic Barker, who founded the business, which specialises in vintage and retro fashion, "from a bedroom in Leeds" in 2005, said the store will retain its online presence, continuing to stock classic vintage pieces dating back to the 1940s.
In a post on social media, Mr Barker explained "with great sadness" that high street trading had become too "tough" to continue. "A big thank you to our amazing landlords who have been so incredibly supportive during what has been a very difficult trading period in the store," he added.
"Unfortunately, retail is tough on the high street these days, as people increasingly move online to buy their goods.
"I have loved having a physical space to sell our wares, but like so many other retail outlets, the decrease in trade because of online shopping has simply made the in-store experience impossible."
The business owner described the shift to online as "almost a blessing", asking customers to "please" continue to support the store in its new form.
"Returning to online has meant that I can return to sourcing the kind of vintage I love and believe in, rather than scrambling about trying to find any vintage product that will make us the money to pay our bills," he said.
"We would be incredibly grateful for your purchases during a difficult time."
Reacting to the news, customers voiced their disappointment while thanking Mr Barker for his years-long presence on the high street.
"So sad to hear, but from what I see online your selection is one of the best in the country so please do keep going on!" one said.
Another added: "So sorry to read this, it has been a favourite haunt of ours since we were students."
Small and large retailers across the country have announced branch closures and restructuring efforts in a bid to offset high operating costs, inflation and shifting consumer habits in recent months.
Among them are Claire's Accessories, which ceased trading at all 154 standalone stores in the UK in April, and River Island, which shut 32 stores following a 19% drop in sales.
Most recently, Shoe Zone, which operates 259 stores across the country, confirmed the closure of 14 branches after reporting losses of over £5million.
