UK department store confirms branch closure – family business since 1871

Townrow will close its department store in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, after struggling to find a financially sustainable future for the branch. The decision ends the family-owned retailer’s presence in the town, where it says it has served generations of customers.

The business, founded in 1871, bought the 10,000 sq ft store in 2009 after its former owner, Eaden Lilley, went into administration. Townrow cited difficult trading conditions, changing shopping habits and rising costs; the closing date is not yet confirmed, but a sale is expected in the coming weeks. Its stores in Maldon and Frinton-on-Sea will remain open.