Borrowash hardware store prepares to close its doors for good after 60 years

A borough hardware store which has been an ever-present since for 60 years is to close its doors for good before the end of October.

There has been a hardware store at the same location on the main Nottingham-Derby Road through Borrowash village since 1962.  Current and outgoing proprietor Phil Vickers took over the shop in December 1983, however, in a statement, Mr. Vickers detailed the reasons for his decision to shut up shop.

The business, with its distinct blue shop front and signage has been offering an Aladdin's Cave of virtually anything for the home and garden, with shelves and walls stacked from floor to ceiling in every single room, with residents calling in for anything from a handful of nails to large pieces of wood and more besides.

He said: "The retail landscape has changed dramatically in the last three to four years which has seen a drop in customers and a reduction in trade of about 40%, mainly as a result of the huge increase in on-line buying greatly accelerated by the Covid 19 outbreak.

"I know that a number of my regular customers – many I regard as friends – will be sad to see the Hardware Shop close and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your custom – some over many years – and it has been a pleasure to serve this community for almost 39 years."

The future of the premises remains unclear following the closure of the shop on Saturday 22nd October at 3pm, as neither it, nor the flat above are for sale or rent.