A 30-year-old Dundee business has been forced to shut down, citing internet shopping for a reduction in footfall.
Westport Gallery Studio, on Old Hawkhill, will be closing its doors for the final time early next month.
Jean McLaren, who has been working in the store for about 25 years, said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of Westport Gallery Studio.
“We recognise that the world of retail is changing and unfortunately we can no longer compete.
“We woulds ask all customers that have gift vouchers or credit notes to redeem them as soon as possible.”
The business was housed in two sites on Old Hawkhill until about four years ago, when one closed and is now occupied by restaurant Gallery 48, and the stock was moved to the smaller one next to Spex Pistols.
Margaret Bain originally started working for the company as a bookkeeper in the larger premises about 18 years ago. She now works a few days a week behind the till.
She said: “It’s terribly sad. People’s trends since online shopping has taken off mean we don’t have enough footfall.
“We have still kept a lot of very loyal customers, but it’s all down to internet shopping.
“The people that do come in really like the shop and come back but, unfortunately, it’s just not enough.
“We still get a lot students in because we are near the university and when there is an open day there, we get a lot of new faces but there aren’t any other shops like this in the area as it’s all cafes and bars.
“The timing is ironic given that the V&A is opening this weekend. When one door opens, another closes.”
The business originally began as an antiques store in the city centre before moving to the West End and gradually transformed into an art gallery, before becoming a fashion and gift shop in more recent years.
The store will be having a half-price sale from September 29, with the doors closing within a fortnight after that.
From now until then there will be a 10% discount on all goods.
Margaret added: “We had a half-price sale when the larger shop closed down and it was packed. All the stuff that was sale then was sold in a few days.
“I’m sure that will be the same in this case. It’ll be nice to have lots of people in the shop, but it’s a shame why they’ll be there.”
