A MUCH-LOVED village business has announced its impending closure as it says it can no longer “compete with the bigger businesses”.
The Wine Centre, in Great Horkesley, is closing its doors with the business launching its closing down sale today.
The shop has been a wine merchant for sixty years, with Anthony and Janet Borges having owned and operated The Wine Centre since 1999, living in an adjoining Georgian country home.
The centre stocks more than 500 wines from around the world, alongside champagnes, spirits, liqueurs, beers, ciders and soft drinks.
The couple did consider selling the business and house in 2020 but later decided not to.
Mr Borges was also a wine columnist, telling the tales of the goings on at his wine shop, the wine festivals, the private dinners, and even his wife's fashion shows.
Now, the couple have announced the business’ impending closure due to struggling trade.
The couple said: “These past years have not been so good. In fact, truthfully, trade has been awful.
“First came Covid-19 and this was followed by the cost-of-living crisis.
“In such times the allure of discount is potent, and as a small independent retailer we are simply not able to compete with the bigger merchants and the supermarkets.
“Statistically, at this time, we are one in 50 independent shops closing every day in the UK, and not without good reason.
“Frankly, it's tough out there for small businesses.
“Our message to everyone is to support local, and especially independent, or risk losing us all.
“We have had twenty-four magnificent years in this beautiful place, and we consider ourselves very lucky to stay living here in the village.
“We would like to thank our wonderful staff, past and present, who have helped us over the years, and a very big thank you to our valued customers, who have made all our years in Great Horkesley possible.”
Both Anthony and Janet will also be retiring later this summer when their doors are finally shut.
With the closure, they have also announced the beginning of the shop’s clearance sale.
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Mr and Mrs Borges said: “We start our clearance sale today with 25 per cent off everything.
“Opening hours will remain the same, 10am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday, until we have sold all our stock.”
Stock is supplied on a first come, first served basis and is subject to availability.
For more information, visit thewinecentre.co.uk, call 01206 271236 or email borges@thewinecentre.co.uk.
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