One of the UK’s long-standing shoe retailers is set to close one of its high street stores after serving customers for 153 years. Robin Elt Shoes in Worcester, which first opened its doors in 1872, will permanently shut down on January 10, 2026. However, the brand’s other branches in Hereford, Ludlow, Malvern, Leominster, and Totnes will continue normal operations.
Jenny Elt, the managing director, expressed deep sadness over the closure of the family-owned business, citing financial challenges as the reason for the decision. She mentioned that sustaining the Worcester store was no longer feasible, emphasizing the impossibility of generating revenue out of thin air.
Worcester City Council acknowledged the impact of online shopping on traditional retail establishments, recognizing a shift towards town centers focusing more on leisure and entertainment activities. The council, in collaboration with Worcestershire County Council, Worcester BID, and other stakeholders, has undertaken extensive efforts to support local traders. Worcester’s retail landscape combines popular high street brands with independent retailers, a model the council aims to uphold through initiatives like the Independent Retailers Forum.
Recent closures at Scope, a charity shop chain, have also made headlines, with three high street branches shutting down over the weekend in Morden, Torquay, and Washington. This move is part of Scope’s broader plan to close 77 shops this year following financial projections indicating a significant loss. The charity forewarned of potential redundancies affecting around 200 retail staff and impacting approximately 2,000 volunteers.
Debbie Boylen, Scope’s head of retail, expressed regret over the closures, emphasizing the vital role the shops played in supporting disabled individuals and their families. Following consultations with staff and volunteers, the decision was made to close the Morden, Torquay, and Washington stores on Saturday, December 6.
In efforts to revitalize the area, Worcester City Council has secured substantial funding, including £4.5 million for enhancing public spaces like the Shambles, enhancing the appeal and accessibility of the locality.
