An established independent merchant in Tewkesbury is among the latest victims of the difficulties faced by the industry.

The owners of Timber & Hardware Supplies Ltd, trading as Handyman Centre have closed the business definitely, citing ongoing difficulties as the reason. 

A note left at the attention of would-be customers explained the situation: "We are deeply sorry to say that we have closed. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

"We have found trading very difficult for a number of years and can no longer continue. We have tried a number of ways to save the business to no avail.

"We have loved the 51 years that we have been here and will bitterly miss the friends we have truly made, and the times spent with you."

The business, which, according to Companies House, was incorporated in April 1975, and was a member of the NMBS, operated from a 604m2 on the edge on the town, on a site which was severely flooded in 2007. It does not appear to have had a website or a social media presence. A Travis Perkins branch is located about 100m from the company's yard.

A planning application submitted by Andrew Reeve, one of the company's directors, is currently being processed by the local authority with the aim to subdivide the premises and create a car wash. The application includes the creation of a new access to the site and the installiion improved drainage. It is not clear if that project will now happen. 

According to the latest unaudited accounts available for the company, it employed seven people in 2023 (down from nine in 2022), and had assets worth around £200,000. However, the business was also £142,500 in debt at the end of 2023. 

Mark Owen, Editor and Owner of Punchline-Gloucester.com, who reported the news, commented: "It's always sad to see another family business close. That unique local knowledge is lost forever, along with friendly neighbourly banter.

"I used to pop in delivering magazines and everyone was always very kind and friendly. We wish the owners and staff all our best wishes and I hope they can rest up and don't feel too bereft at their loss. It's tough losing something that you have put your heart and soul into for so long."