DOZENS of customers at a beloved English antique store and tea room have been left heartbroken by the news their favourite shop must close due to “extortionate” bill increases.
The Cornstore Emporium and Tearoom at Pulborough will shut its doors for good at the end of February next year.
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Owner Helen Johnson thanked her customers for their loyalty over the three years since she took over the business in June 2020.
She said: “With a very heavy heart I can confirm my business The Cornstore Emporium & tearoom is sadly leaving at the end of February.
“My lease was up for renewal and after seeing the terms of the new lease we decided that we could not continue, the personal risks involved heavily outweigh the financial gain for us.”
Cornstore Emporium was only recently refurbished and transformed into an “antiques, gifts, and lifestyle” store, with a tea room serving up delicious breakfasts, light lunches, and a selection of homemade cakes.
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Its customers have now come out in droves in support of Helen and to express their disappointment over the shop’s closure.
One person wrote on Facebook: “That is exceptionally sad news. So sorry.”
Another said: “Im so sad to read this. Your shop is one of my most favourite places to visit. You’ll be missed.”
Someone else wrote: “So so sorry to see you go. Love everything about the Cornstore. Unique in every way. Good luck with whatever you do – I’m secretly hoping you find somewhere else locally to make special.”
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And another: “I hate it when great local places close, villages need these things to remain vibrant and strong. I don’t live in Pulborough anymore but this is a very sad day fior you all. Good luck in the future.”
Helen explained she and the team at Cornstore Emporium and Tearoom had faced “many challenges” in the past three years – from road closures to bridge repairs and parking problems.
The “extortionate” rise in utility bills, paired with the “ever-increasing threat of flooding”, was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Helen said: “We have survived all of these and come out even stronger, we have enjoyed every minute, but there comes a time when the head has to overrule the heart.
“Hopefully someone shall continue a similar style of business at the property as we know how important it is for the village of Pulborough and as far as we are aware there are no plans to develop the building.
“Myself and my amazing Cornstore family of staff and traders would like to thank everyone who has shown us such loyalty, love & support over the last few years. We shall miss you & also our many furry friends terribly.”
It comes amid a number of other devastating closures, including that of popular Harry Potter shop Potteries Potions in Stoke-on-Trent.
The shutters will come down for the final time in January.
Scope charity shop on Northbrook Street in Newbury has announced it will close its doors on December 2.
The charity shop chain used to have over 200 stores across England and Wales but now just 190 are listed on its website.
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The retailer has said the cost of living crisis coupled with the pandemic has put huge pressure on its trading.
