COMPETITION from out-of-town superstores has been blamed for the closure of a shoe shop in Malvern.
Stead and Simpson, on Church Street, is to shut on Saturday, September 14.
The company's property director, Jonathan Smith, said: "The shop is no longer viable because of the effect that the out-of-town retail park has had on our trade. There has been a definite impact on our sales. Unfortunately, we can't continue to operate a loss-making shop."
Mr Smith said he did not know how many staff would lose their jobs but as many as possible would be offered employment in stores elsewhere.
However, the unit will not remain empty for long as it is being taken over by the Essex-based chain Clinton Cards.
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