It was announced this week that Blanchford & Co has closed all four of its shops as of Friday, February 14. Known for its tailored services to both private and corporate customers, Blanchford Building Supplies offered a wide range of products including plumbing, heating, kitchens, bathrooms, timber, ironmongery, paint, tools, and plants. This closure affects approximately 80 employees.
Another local business, Witney Lighting, has also declared its intention to close by March. This family-run high street store has been in operation for eight years. Owners expressed gratitude towards their customers and initiated a closing-down sale, emphasizing that “everything must go.” Oli Saunders, the owner, attributed the closure to difficult economic conditions and the increasing dominance of online shopping, which has significantly reduced turnover over the past two years.
Stargoat Sound and Light, located in the Cherwell Business Village in Banbury, will transition to an online-only business model after more than two decades. Initially starting as a commercial recording studio in 1988, Stargoat has seen a remarkable history, including hosting records by notable artists before evolving toward musical instrument retail. Owner Paul mentioned he is closing the retail outlet as he approaches retirement, aligning with the business’s current trend of predominantly online sales.
In another development, EMS Physio, a historic manufacturer of medical supplies founded in 1924, announced late last year it would cease operations in the new year after over a century of trading. Based in Grove Business Park since 1969, the company faced overwhelming regulation costs that rendered continuing operations unsustainable. Managing director James Greenham noted the financial burden of compliance as insurmountable and expressed disappointment for the impacted staff, who numbered around 25 in their Wantage location.
Lastly, Bicester’s World of Water garden centre also shut its doors at the start of the year, citing mounting overheads and evolving shopping preferences as primary reasons. General manager Karl explained that the high operational costs, including substantial electricity bills for sustaining tropical fish environments, were unsustainable. The garden center faced some of the highest site-related costs, making continued operation unfeasible.
For those looking to discover more about local businesses and happenings, feel free to browse our directory and events or submit a business listing or an event to engage with the community.
