Dinghams, on the Market Place, has shared with its customers that it will remain open until its final day on February 28.
In a Facebook post, the shop said: “It is with a heavy heart that we share some difficult news with all of you.
“After much thought and careful consideration, we have made the heartbreaking decision to close Dinghams. This is not a decision we’ve taken lightly, and we wanted to personally explain the reasons behind this difficult choice.
“For over 40 years, Dinghams has been more than just a business; it has been a place where we’ve had the privilege to serve our wonderful customers, build lasting relationships, and be a part of the fabric of this community.
“From our cosy café to the carefully curated shop, we’ve strived to create a space that people could enjoy, relax, and feel welcome in.
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“Your support over the years has meant everything to us, and we are so grateful for the loyalty, warmth, and friendships we’ve built along the way.”
The post goes on to explain the challenges the business has faced – rising costs, changes in consumer habits and external economic pressures all making it “increasingly difficult to maintain the level of service and quality you’ve come to expect”.
It continues: “Despite our best efforts to adapt and find solutions, the combination of these pressures has made it unsustainable for us to continue operating as an independent business.”
The family run business also once had a branch in Winchester, which closed its doors in 2022 due to a lack of profits and the high costs of trading in the area.
Dinghams Cookware (Image: Newsquest) The Dinghams Team added: “While this is an incredibly sad moment for us, we want to express our deep gratitude to each and every one of you. It’s because of your support—whether through shopping with us, enjoying a meal in our café, or simply spreading the word about what we do—that we’ve been able to grow and thrive for as long as we have.
“As we enter our final months, we remain focused on making the closure process as smooth as possible. We want to ensure that our loyal customers have the opportunity to visit us one last time, whether to grab a coffee, shop for some final items, or simply say goodbye. We’ll continue to offer the same quality of service and hospitality that you’ve come to expect during this time.
“It has been an unforgettable experience, and we will always be grateful for the support.”