One of the UK’s oldest shoe retailers is set to close a high street store in Worcester after serving customers for 153 years. Robin Elt Shoes, established in 1872, will permanently shut its doors on January 10, 2026, due to financial challenges. While the Worcester location will cease operations, the brand’s other stores in Hereford, Ludlow, Malvern, Leominster, and Totnes will continue to operate.
Jenny Elt, the managing director, expressed deep sadness over the closure of the family-run business, attributing it to the store’s lack of financial sustainability for the future. Worcester City Council acknowledged the impact of online shopping trends on traditional retail, emphasizing efforts to revitalize the city center with a mix of high street brands and independent stores. Significant investments, including £4.5 million for public realm improvements in areas like the Shambles, have been made to enhance the shopping experience.
In another development, Scope, a charity shop chain, recently closed three high street branches in Morden, Torquay, and Washington as part of plans to shut down 77 shops this year. The closures follow projections of a £1.5 million loss, prompting the charity to consider restructuring. Debbie Boylen, head of retail at Scope, expressed regret over the closures, highlighting the crucial role the shops played in supporting disabled individuals and their families.
The evolving retail landscape, influenced by changing consumer behaviors and economic factors, continues to shape the future of traditional high street businesses like Robin Elt Shoes and Scope.