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A popular Hereford independent shop that has been trading for decades has confirmed that it will be closing later this year.
The closure of M Black & Sons is due to retirement and the end of the lease on the store on Widemarsh Street in Hereford city centre.
The store has been open since 1949.
The closure of the shop will take place at the end of 2025 and there are still several months to pop in and purchase an item.
Many local residents will remember purchasing their first pair of jeans or clothing from this fantastic independent outlet and the loss of it will certainly be felt in a city where men’s clothing outlets are relatively few and far between.
The shop sells many top brands and is worth a visit
Two other city centre shops have also confirmed that they will be closing.
A shop in Hereford city centre has confirmed that it will be closing its doors for the final time on Saturday 8th March.
Crosskeys Stores, located on Gomond Street in Hereford, shared the following message on social media this morning:
“It is with great sadness that we will be closing our shop on Saturday 8th March.
“We will still be selling online and you may see us at a few pop ups occasionally while stocks last.
“We will be open 9-4 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week and next and would really appreciate your support in our final few weeks.
“We would like to thank those of you who have supported us over the last year.”
In addition to this, BookMasters UK, based in the Hereford Butter Market, have confirmed that they will also be closing down.
“Yes, sadly it’s true. We will be ceasing trade at the end of this week, at the latest. There are numerous reasons for doing so, but the gist of it is simply that it’s too difficult to maintain a business in this climate.
“Fortunately, I’m one of the lucky ones, in that I can go back to doing what I did beforehand (freelance writing/editing).
“So yes, ALL books will be on sale for 50p each. Yep, even the hardbacks. I want to shift as much as I can before the end of the week. Obviously, the 3 for £5 offer is no more. Of course, if you want to pay me more for books, I’m not going to turn that down.
“It also goes without saying that I won’t be taking in any more donations; once stock is gone, it’s gone, so get in while you can.
“I would also like to thank everyone who supported me over these past few months, whether through purchases, donations, or just chatting about literature. It’s been a pleasure.
“Having said all this, it’s possible that BookMasters may return in the future. I’m not necessarily abandoning the idea entirely; I could decide to give it another go in a different capacity, or rebrand the business. Who knows…
“Thank you again, and thank you to Hereford Butter Market, Q’s Comic Store, and the other traders who have been very kind and welcoming to me.
“See you around!”
