Fenwick set to close Leicester department store

The Fenwick department store in Leicester city centre is set to close after 50 years in business.

The landmark store, on Market Street, was bought by Fenwick in 1962 from Joseph Johnson, and has been a mainstay of the city’s shopping scene ever since.

However, a spokesperson for Fenwick said changing shopping habits had hit the shop hard.

A Fenwick spokesman said: “Fenwick will now begin a consultation period with its employees. During this time the store will continue trading as normal under the leadership of David Illingworth.”

Fenwick group chairman Mark Fenwick, said: “This has been a very difficult decision for us, as we have been committed to serving the people of Leicester for over 50 years, but the challenging trading environment and gradual loss of footfall, has made it impossible for us to find a way forward that enables the business to trade successfully. Looking after our Leicester employees and customers will now be a top priority.”

Fenwick said the store will close in the coming months.