Dear Editor,
My first thoughts are for the staff impacted by this closure and I hope they will be supported in finding new positions elsewhere.
The loss of Halfords from our town, with it having been an important part of our retail landscape for so long, is something to regret.
As with almost all retail businesses, Halfords has faced numerous challenges in recent years that have driven changes in the business and how it delivers
services to its changing customer base.
These changes have included closure of branches within towns the size of Stroud, with Stroud retaining its branch for longer than many, in favour of out-of-town locations with greater reach.
Halfords in Stroud Picture: Matt Bigwood
In general, national chains seem more vulnerable to such market evolution, which has led to so many recent closures across the country and the collapse of some other businesses.
Stroud is fortunate to have other businesses relatively nearby that
offer similar products and services, who will likely pick up the displaced business. I hope that the unit will not remain vacant for too long after the departure of Halfords, and that new tenants will bring more diversity to the offerings within the town.
Tony Davey MBCS CBA
Chair
Stroud and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce
