A much-loved Midland shop is set to close its doors, with its owner declaring that retail has 'come to the end of its life.' Urban Village, located on Henley-in-Arden High Street, first opened in 2020 after relocating from its former home in Digbeth. Owner Frankie Johns announced the closure on social media, with July 5 marking the final day of trading.
Owner's Reflections on Retail's Decline
Promising a closing-down event, Frankie Johns confirmed that the store would continue operating online. Referring to retail as 'a bit of a dinosaur,' he stated that a physical closure was 'the right thing to do.' In a heartfelt social media post, Frankie shared his thoughts: 'As you know, about seven or eight weeks ago, we decided to go to Saturday-only trading at Urban Village clothing. I mentioned many reasons and the things that have happened.'
'Basically, retail in the UK is almost done now. Small independent shops like ours are really struggling. I know many friends in business who have had to pack it in. It's so sad, but unfortunately, it's a sign of the times.'
Final Days and a Celebration
Frankie continued: 'Urban Village, as of July 5, will cease being a retail store. We've decided it's not even worth opening on Saturdays anymore. Things are so hard, and I'm sure many of you are feeling it too. I know a lot of companies are doing the same.'
'You'll still be able to get a pinch of vintage fun from us because we will continue selling online. That seems to be where everyone wants to shop now. We've seen a massive decline over the past two years. I certainly don't think the government has helped us in any way, but that's another story.'
Frankie announced a closing-down event on July 4 and 5, saying: 'We have decided to go out with a bang. We've been going a long time, and I love all the customers who have supported us. We don't want it to be sad; we want it to be a celebration. Retail has come to the end of its life. It's a bit of a dinosaur now. If all the big companies can't do it, I don't know how they expect us little ones to carry on.'
'So, on July 4 and 5, come up here, support us. Clear us out of stock. We're going to have a big sale and go out with a bang. We'll stick a DJ on, have a little fun, and say thank you for being here. It is sad, I feel sad at the moment, but it's the right thing to do. You know where we are—Henley-in-Arden. Thank you.'
