An electrical appliances business will close eight stores this weekend as it prepares to invest more into its online space and remaining outlets.
Hughes, founded in 1921 said some of its smaller retail stores across East Anglia would be shut. The first shop opened in Lowestoft in 1928.
Chief executive Mark Wardell said staff were informed of the decision earlier and said they would be supported through the “difficult process”.
He added that many of those affected had worked for the company for a long time and had “played a huge part” in the business.
View 2 ImagesAnother major retailer is set to vanish from the UK high street(Image: Getty Images )
In a statement, Hughes said: “The business recognises the need to adapt and evolve its offer in the face of rising operating costs, the increasing popularity of online shopping and changing customer expectations when it comes to the modern in-store experience.”
“These have not been easy decisions to make,” he said.
“All will receive the honesty, respect and support they deserve through the difficult process ahead.
“We understand the news will be very upsetting for our teams, but we have acted now to ensure the long-term success of the business.”
The eight stores closing at the end of business on Saturday, June 6 will be:
- Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
- Dereham, Norfolk
- Diss, Norfolk
- Hunstanton, Norfolk
- North Walsham, Norfolk
- Norwich Mason Road
- Thetford, Norfolk
- Wisbech, Cambridgeshire
The closure of the shops will affect 35 staff members. A proposed closure of its delivery depot in Mason Road could see 25 staff face redundancy, a spokesperson said.
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The company will continue to operate its 10 other East Anglia stores, which are located in:
- Lowestoft
- Great Yarmouth
- Beccles
- Norwich Hall Road
- Bury St Edmunds
- Fakenham
- King’s Lynn
- Ipswich Felixstowe Road
- Martlesham
- Colchester