It has been announced that clothing retailer M&Co is set to close all of its 170 branches across the UK.
The closure of the M&Co store in Castle Douglas’s King Street will have a significant impact on the community, as it has provided employment for local residents and served as a shopping destination for customers. Customers are advised to keep an eye out for any sales or clearance events as the company looks to liquidate its stock.
The Scottish chain was recently bought out of administration by AK Retail, but the deal did not include the stores or staff. Despite being a staple in many towns for years, the company has struggled to remain in business due to the changing retail landscape and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The closure of M&Co serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by retailers in today’s market and highlights the importance of supporting local businesses. The loss of the store in Castle Douglas will be felt by many, and its closure is a testament to the difficult circumstances faced by retailers in the current climate.
In a Facebook Post, the retail company said “Unfortunately we haven’t received the news we would have hoped for during our administration period, and would like to share this news with you.
“As we haven’t received any funded, deliverable offers that would result in the transfer of the Company’s stores or staff to a potential buyer, this means that all of our stores will close.
“The M&Co ‘Brand’ has been purchased, but unfortunately this does not include a future for our stores, website or staff.
“We will trade all of our stores until Easter, and then begin the close down process.
“We will update you closer to the time, of our actual closing date.
“Please have a read of our policies below, which continue in store, and note our updated rules to our gift cards, if you have one.
“We hope you will appreciate this is also a very difficult time for staff working in the stores and we ask for respect and understanding when raising an issue.
“We thank you all for your continuous support, and we hope to see you all over the next couple of months.”
Originally founded as a Paisley Pawnbrokers in 1834, the business switched to selling clothes in 1953.
The chain then re-branded as M&Co in 2005.
AK Retail Holdings own plus size retailer Yours Clothing.”
