The high street in Gloucester is set to lose one of its long-standing independent retailers as A.G. Meek, a shoe shop that has served the city for six decades, prepares to close its doors on Saturday, April 12, 2025. This closure marks a significant moment for the local community and adds to the growing concern surrounding the vitality of traditional retail in the face of economic pressures and evolving consumer habits.   

A History Rooted in Gloucester

A.G. Meek’s connection to Gloucester dates back to 1965, when the first shop opened in Westgate Street. The business itself has an even richer history, having been founded in Cardiff in 1912 by Albert George Meek, the grandfather of the current owner, David Meek. The family’s dedication to footwear retail saw the establishment of further shops in Wales, and the Gloucester branch became a familiar and trusted presence in the city centre. In October 2021, the Gloucester store relocated to a more prominent position on Eastgate Street, hoping to capitalize on increased footfall near the new Primark store.   

For many years, A.G. Meek was renowned for its “Meek’s Sets” in the 1950s – matching shoes, bags, and gloves – a testament to the quality and coordinated style the shop offered. The closure of the Gloucester branch signifies not just the loss of a retailer but also the end of a chapter in the city’s commercial history.   

Reasons Behind the Closure: A Sign of the Times

The decision to close the Gloucester store was not taken lightly. David Meek, the owner, cited a confluence of challenging economic factors that made the business unsustainable at its current location. These reasons resonate with the struggles faced by many independent retailers on high streets across the UK:

Rising Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs): A significant blow came with the anticipated increase in employer National Insurance contributions, set to take effect from April 6, 2025. The rate rose from 13.8% to 15%, substantially increasing the operating costs for businesses with employees. For a shop like A.G. Meek, employing part-time staff, this increase represented a considerable financial strain.

Reduced Business Rate Relief: The reduction in business rate relief further compounded the financial pressures. Business rates are a significant overhead for brick-and-mortar stores, and any decrease in relief directly impacts their profitability.

Declining Footfall: A persistent issue for many high street retailers is the decline in foot traffic. The shift towards online shopping, coupled with the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in fewer people visiting physical stores. Mr. Meek noted that the Gloucester shop had been struggling with reduced footfall since the pandemic, making it difficult to cover its costs. He specifically mentioned that Eastgate Street no longer attracted the customer numbers needed to sustain the business.   

Increased Minimum Wage: The rise in the minimum wage, while important for employees, also adds to the wage bill for businesses, further squeezing already tight margins. Mr. Meek estimated that the combined impact of increased business rates, National Insurance, and minimum wage would cost his Gloucester branch an additional £15,000 per year – a burden he deemed unsustainable.   

Mr. Meek expressed his disappointment, stating that the recent budget was “a disaster for small businesses employing lots of part-time staff like ours.” He felt that the tax rises disproportionately affected retail businesses of their size compared to larger corporations or online giants like Amazon.

Impact on the Community and High Street

The closure of A.G. Meek is undoubtedly a loss for Gloucester city centre. It’s more than just a shop closing; it’s the departure of a familiar face and a business that has been part of the community for generations. Local shoppers have expressed their sadness and concern about the future of the high street. Comments online reflect a sense of loss for a business considered “part of the fabric of Gloucester’s history.”

The closure fuels the ongoing debate about the challenges facing high streets across the UK. Independent retailers, in particular, often struggle to compete with online giants and navigate rising operational costs. The departure of A.G. Meek will leave a void in the retail landscape of Eastgate Street and raises questions about what will fill the space.

A Call to Support Local Businesses

The closure of A.G. Meek serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by independent retailers. While online shopping offers convenience, the loss of physical stores diminishes the character and vibrancy of town and city centres. The personal service, community connection, and unique offerings of local businesses are difficult to replicate online.   

The final few days of trading for A.G. Meek in Gloucester present an opportunity for the local community to show their support, thank the staff for their service over the years, and perhaps find a bargain in their closing down sale. While the closure is a sad occasion, the memories and the legacy of A.G. Meek’s 60 years in Gloucester will undoubtedly remain.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gloucester’s Retail Landscape

The departure of A.G. Meek adds to a list of recent closures on UK high streets, reflecting broader economic trends. The rise in costs, coupled with shifting consumer behaviour, necessitates a re-evaluation of the traditional retail model. For Gloucester, as for many other towns and cities, the challenge lies in adapting to these changes, fostering a diverse and resilient local economy that can attract footfall and support independent businesses alongside larger retailers. The focus may need to shift towards creating experiences, community hubs, and unique offerings that cannot be easily replicated online, ensuring that the high street remains a vital part of the city’s identity.   

FAQs

When is the Gloucester branch of A.G. Meek closing?

The Gloucester branch, located at 32 Eastgate Street, is scheduled to close its doors permanently on April 12, 2025. ​

 Will there be any sales or promotions before the store closes?

Yes, A.G. Meek has initiated a closing down sale at the Gloucester branch. Customers can avail themselves of discounts on various branded shoes. Additionally, there’s a promotion offering a £10 voucher for every £50 spent. ​

What will happen to the staff of the Gloucester store?

The Gloucester branch employs five staff members. While specific details about their future employment haven’t been disclosed, the company acknowledges the impact of the closure on its employees and is likely exploring options to support them during this transition. ​

Are other A.G. Meek stores also closing?

No, the closure affects only the Gloucester branch. The company will continue to operate its four remaining stores, all located in Wales. ​

 Where are the remaining A.G. Meek stores located?

The remaining A.G. Meek stores are situated in Cardiff, Newport, and Cwmbran. These locations continue to serve customers with the same quality footwear and service that the brand is known for. ​

 Is A.G. Meek planning to expand its online presence following the closure?

While the company has previously considered enhancing its online operations, it has found that many customers prefer the in-store experience, especially when it comes to trying on shoes. However, the evolving retail landscape may influence future decisions regarding online expansion. ​

 What brands does A.G. Meek stock?

A.G. Meek offers a curated selection of top fashion brands, including Kickers, Skechers, Timberland, Rieker, Tamaris, Marco Tozzi, Hotter, and Van Dal. ​

 What is the history of A.G. Meek in Gloucester?

A.G. Meek established its presence in Gloucester in 1965 with a store on Westgate Street, housed in a Georgian-fronted Tudor building. In October 2021, the store relocated to Eastgate Street, aiming for a more central location opposite the new Primark. ​

To conclude

The closure of A.G. Meek’s Gloucester branch marks the end of an era for a store that has been a staple in the community for 60 years. This decision reflects broader challenges faced by independent retailers, including rising operational costs, shifts in consumer behavior, and the evolving retail landscape. While the Gloucester community bids farewell to this beloved store, A.G. Meek’s legacy continues through its remaining locations in Wales, upholding the tradition of quality footwear and exceptional service.​

For customers and community members, this closure serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses. As the retail environment continues to evolve, the resilience and adaptability of such establishments will be crucial in navigating future challenges.

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