Pets at Home store closures - one branch to shut permanently today
A branch will shut today
PA
Pets at Home will pull down the shutters for good at a Bradford location today.
The retailer said the closure comes as the branch has come to the end of its lease.
The store at the Bradford Forster Square Retail Park will shut for good.
Local shoppers are encouraged to visit one of the other branches in the nearby area.
More stores are expected to open over the years
PA
A Pets at Home statement said: “As we near the end of lease agreements we routinely review the future potential of each of our stores, taking into consideration size of premises, services on offer and other Pets at Home pet care centres in the local area.
“As a result, we have recently taken the decision to close Bradford Forster Square, which will stop trading on August 31.
“Whilst these are always difficult decisions, our first priority is our colleagues and we’re delighted they will all be taking up new positions in our other local pet care centres.
“Customers can also still access our pet care services at nearby Pets at Homes stores, including Bradford Idle and Guiseley, as well as online.”
A Facebook post from Pets at Home added: "It’s with a heavy heart that we have to bid farewell to an amazing town and a community that welcomed us with open arms from day one.
"We have made some truly special friends, both four and two-legged and we’re so sad to be having to say goodbye.
"It has truly been an honour to help and support your pets, whether finding that perfect food for ticky tums or getting that coat to fit just right.
"I can assure you that this decision was not an easy one and not taken lightly, but due to a number of factors we have to say goodbye to Bradford Forster Square."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Shoppers are encouraged to visit nearby stores
PA
Pets at Home has more than 450 retailers across the country. It recently announced it would open more stores in the UK.
It said at least 40 new branches are in the works, although the locations have not yet been confirmed.
More urban areas and cities like London are believed to be benefitting from the changes.
Shoppers can expect to see the new locations open over the next five years.