Local families express sadness over the closure of the beloved stationery shop.
Topics covered
The recent announcement of the impending closure of Smiggle, a popular kids’ stationery shop located in the Eastgate Shopping Centre, has left many families in Inverness feeling disheartened. The store, which has been a staple in the Highland Capital for several years, is set to close its doors on May 21, following the expiration of its lease.
The retailer has opted not to renew the lease, prompting a wave of disappointment among local shoppers.
Community reactions to the closure
As news of the closure spread, dozens of parents and children flocked to Smiggle to take advantage of the ongoing 50% discount on all products.
Many expressed their sadness over the loss of a store that has provided unique stationery options for years. Wesley Taylor-Marriott, a father of five, shared his feelings, stating, “It is a shame, isn’t it? Because it’s been here for a long time. My kids love Smiggle. It’s pretty sad.” His sentiments were echoed by other parents who lamented the lack of similar stores in the area.
The impact of rising rents
Concerns about the high rental rates in the Eastgate Shopping Centre have been raised by several community members. Sarah Holden, a mother of two, noted, “There’s not another shop with this range of stationery really. When kids go back to school, they can come here and choose something they like rather than everything that’s out there online.” The shift towards online shopping has made it increasingly difficult for parents to find suitable options for their children, further emphasizing the need for local stores like Smiggle.
Future of the Eastgate Shopping Centre
The closure of Smiggle raises questions about the future of the Eastgate Shopping Centre and its ability to retain tenants amidst rising costs. As the community reflects on the loss of this beloved shop, many hope that the management will take steps to address the challenges faced by retailers in the area. A staff member from Smiggle mentioned that the store might close earlier than the scheduled date if inventory sells out quickly, indicating a strong demand for the remaining products.
As the final day approaches, the community continues to rally around the store, sharing memories and expressing their hopes for the future of local shopping in Inverness. Smiggle has yet to respond to requests for comment, and the management of Eastgate Shopping Centre has also been approached for a statement regarding the situation.
