Scarborough Jeweller Bright & Sons Announces Closure After 165 Years

Scarborough’s iconic jeweller, Bright & Sons, is set to close its doors permanently after an impressive 165 years of operation. The family-run establishment, located on St Nicholas Street, has been a cherished part of the community, celebrating significant life events such as engagements, weddings, and anniversaries.

End of an Era for Local Business

The decision to close comes as the jeweller grapples with challenging trading conditions while steadfastly maintaining its commitment to quality and customer service. The last day of trading is scheduled for October 31, 2023, and a substantial closing-down sale has already commenced. This sale features a range of items, from new and antique jewellery to watches, rings, and necklaces, all available at reduced prices. Selected pieces are also being offered online, giving shoppers a final opportunity to purchase from a storied establishment.

Founded in 1859 by brothers Frederick and Herbert Bright, the jeweller has maintained strong ties to its Sheffield roots, partnering with H. L. Brown in 1957. The closure reflects a broader trend affecting many high street retailers, with numerous well-known names disappearing from shopping districts across the country.

“It is very much a sad goodbye,” said Kerri Amos, representing H. L. Brown. “We know the community in Scarborough will feel it, and all of us here in Sheffield are feeling it too.” This sentiment resonates deeply with local residents who have relied on Bright & Sons for generations.

Challenges Facing the Retail Sector

Bright & Sons has long been recognized for its personalized service and high-quality offerings, with many employees remaining with the company for decades. One notable commission was the ceremonial chain created in 1897 for the Mayoress of Scarborough to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

As Bright & Sons prepares to close, the retail landscape continues to shift dramatically. Other establishments, such as G Hewitt & Son in Grimsby, also closed earlier this year after 154 years of service. Additionally, major retailers like Poundland and Wilko have announced significant closures, with Poundland shutting 68 stores by mid-October and Wilko collapsing last year, resulting in hundreds of store closures.

The British Retail Consortium has projected that the recent increase in employer National Insurance contributions could cost the retail sector approximately £2.3 billion. Furthermore, a survey by the British Chambers of Commerce revealed that over half of businesses plan to raise prices in the coming months, citing employee costs as a primary concern.

With the Centre for Retail Research predicting the closure of around 17,350 retail sites this year, the outlook for the sector remains bleak. Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR, acknowledged that while the number of closures in 2024 was not as severe as in previous years, a troubling trend persists. He cautioned that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the retail sector in the coming year, with operational costs rising for both businesses and consumers.

The impending closure of Bright & Sons marks not only the end of a significant local business but also highlights the ongoing struggles faced by retailers in an increasingly challenging economic environment. As shoppers say farewell to this beloved jeweller, the community reflects on the memories forged within its Victorian doors.