A cherished family-run shoe shop that has stood on a Worcestershire high street for more than 150 years is preparing to shut its doors permanently.
A Heartbreaking Decision for a Family Legacy
Robin Elt Shoes in Worcester, first established in 1872, is one of Britain's oldest footwear retailers. After 153 years of trading, managing director Jenny Elt confirmed the painful decision to close the store, citing financial unviability.
"It's very difficult for myself, being the family business, it's very sad to have to come to this decision," she said. "The shop is no longer viable as a store that can continue into the future, unfortunately. We can't pick money out of thin air."
Council Responds to High Street Challenges
A spokesperson for Worcester City Council acknowledged the pressures facing traditional retail, pointing to the rise of online shopping and a shift towards leisure-focused town centres.
The council emphasised its ongoing work to support local traders, undertaken in partnership with Worcestershire County Council and Worcester BID. This includes attracting significant funding for public realm improvements.
"We have attracted significant funding to invest in the area, including £4.5 million to improve the public realm, which has seen a major refurbishment and improvements in the Shambles, making the area more attractive and accessible," the representative stated.
A Celebrated Independent Retailer
The closure marks a significant loss for Worcester's shopping scene. The store was not just a historic fixture but an award-winning retailer.
In 2017, it was named ladies' independent retailer of the year at an industry awards ceremony at the NEC. The family business also received a highly commended award for men's independent retailer of the year and multiple footwear retailer of the year at the Footwear Industry Awards.
While the Worcester branch will close in the coming weeks, Robin Elt Shoes will continue to trade from its two other locations in Malvern and Hereford, offering some continuity for its loyal customers.
