One of the UK’s long-standing shoe retailers is set to close a high street store in Worcester after serving customers for 153 years. Robin Elt Shoes, established in 1872, will bid farewell on January 10, 2026, while its other branches in Hereford, Ludlow, Malvern, Leominster, and Totnes will continue operating.
Jenny Elt, the managing director, expressed sadness over the closure of the family-owned business, attributing it to the store’s lack of financial sustainability. She mentioned the challenging decision, acknowledging that the store could not sustain itself economically for the future.
The closure reflects a broader trend in retail, with city centers like Worcester adapting to the rise of online shopping and shifting towards leisure and entertainment offerings. Worcester City Council, in collaboration with Worcestershire County Council, Worcester BID, and other partners, has actively supported local traders in the face of these changes.
Efforts to enhance the city’s shopping experience, including a mix of popular high street brands and unique independent stores, have been backed by investments like the £4.5 million allocated for improving public spaces. Meanwhile, Scope, a charity organization, has recently closed three additional high street shops as part of its plan to shut down 77 stores this year due to financial challenges.