A Penrith town-centre landmark, Vaseys furniture store, launched its final sale this week, as it prepared to shut its doors after 80 years.
Directors of the family-owned shop in Dockray say they had taken the difficult decision to close, as their retirement nears and high streets struggle amid increasing economic pressures and tough online competition.
Managing director Mike Vasey, aged 71, said they would now focus on their larger Carlisle furniture outlet on Lancaster Street.
Expressing thanks to customers for their support over the years, Mike said retirement was overdue. He added: “It’s time for us to start winding down and retire. It has been hard to decide to close, but it feels like the right time.”
On Wednesday and Thursday, regular customers to the store were invited to the first of its closing down sales.
Business was brisk at the invitation-only event as shoppers snapped up bargains in suites, tables and chairs, rugs, pictures and other household furnishings.
On Friday, doors were set to open to the general public with the sale continuing throughout the weekend.
Lisa Comber, director, said: “It has been so hard to make the decision to close, especially as we have been such a large part of the community for so many years. “Things are changing. Online shopping has had an impact on all aspects of the high street, from clothing to furniture, and we seem to live in a throwaway culture. “It is very sad. We have furnished so many homes for people over the years. We have had customers visit this week to tell us that they bought their first sofa from us. People seem genuinely sorry to see us go.”
Penrith manager David Carr — the only employee in the local store — will move to the company’s Carlisle branch. Mike’s grandfather bought the Dockray site in 1936 and his father, Malcolm, went on to run the business. Mike plans to sell the premises. He said he would decide the precise closing date following this weekend’s sale.
