Women’s clothing store Alexandra’s of Keswick, which has been an important part of the town’s independent shopping experience for more than a decade, is to close at the end of the year.
Owner Alexandra Boardman, who is also a town councillor, made the decision to shut in 2020 as the lease on her shop in Packhorse Court will be up for renewal.
Alexandra said: “It wasn’t easy but once the decision was made, I contacted my lovely, loyal customers to let them know.”
But she has made it clear it would be business as usual for the rest of this year.
She added: “I have all of my new autumn and winter stock arriving and will continue until the end of the 2020.
“It is sad that Keswick will be losing another independent store but because of coronavirus, shopping habits have changed during lockdown and until customer confidence returns to the high street, it will be difficult.
“My shop relies on personal shopping experience.”
This is the second major blow for Packhorse Court since lockdown in March.
Earlier this summer, owners Debra and Andrew Binns, of florist’s shop Evergreens of Keswick, announced it would not reopen.
Instead, they are continuing to trade online rather than from premises next door to Alexandra’s.
Alexandra, who has acted a spokeswoman for independent shops in Keswick, said: “Packhorse Court will certainly be much quieter at the beginning of next year but I do hope they can attract new businesses in.”
Alexandra opened her clothing shop in Keswick more than 10 years ago.
Initially it was based in Main Street before she moved to Packhorse Court over five years ago.
Alexandra is intending to take a few weeks’ holiday at the beginning of 2021 before she embarks on her next 10-year plan.
