Robin Elt Shoes to close Pershore branch after 16 years

Robin Elt Shoes will officially be closing its Pershore branch after 16 years of trading due to rising costs.

The business has been a staple footwear shop across Worcestershire for the past 150 years.

Jenny Elt, who is the fifth generation to run the business, said: "Our Pershore store will be closing this Saturday.

"We had a closing down sale since Christmas time and decided this because of the cost of living crisis, rising staff costs and energy costs which made it not profitable for the group.

Robin Elt and daughter Jenny Elt. (Image: NQ)"It was a very difficult decision. We have been trading in Pershore for 16 years and the decision was made so it would not be at a loss to the other stores.

"It is very sad to see staff go - some have managed to find other jobs already and the manager is staying on to see the closure through.

"Unfortunately, we could not places for them in our other stores."

She has emphasised that the business's other seven stores in Worcester, Malvern, Leominster, Torquay, Totnes, Hereford and Ludlow are still open as usual, and they are doing well.

"We have been in footwear for over 150 years and are not planning on stopping now and will be carrying on offering great customer service at our other branches.

"We will continue, and I urge shoppers to shop local - we do have a website, but it is not the same level of service as going into our stores."

The Elt Family first began trading in 1872, with fifth-generation owner Ms Elt, now serving as the managing director.

Robin Elt Shoes opened its Pershore branch in 2007 as an Ecco concept store.

Then later, in October 2012, it launched its website.

In 2022, the business celebrated 150 years of trading and giveaway competitions with prizes such as free shoes, a weekend break, hampers and handbags.