|
|
 |
| |
Hardware store forced to close
FOR years it was the first port of call for fans of DIY, builders, decorators and plumbers.
But the curtain has fallen on the family run Goodwoods shop in Junction Road, Tufnell Park and their branch in Swains Lane, Highgate.
Owner Jed Beardmore said a number of factors had contributed to its demise, which opened its doors in the early 1960s. Selling everything from cut-to-order wood, all manner of ironmongery, paint and other household essentials, the Junction Road shop was first opened by hardware seller Dave Banks. Jed’s father George took it over in 1972.
Mr Beardmore said: “We simply ran out of money, like a lot of small shops. Our business was gradually nibbled away.”
He cited a number of factors for demise of Goodwoods demise.
“In the past three or four years there has been a lot of big problems with the trade side,” said Mr Beardmore. “They simply stopped coming. The Builders Depot in Friern Barnet is selling things cheaper than we could buy them.”
He also cited a rise in costs, with business rates doubling from £20,000 to £40,000 in three years. Other costs, such as staff wages and running a works van, contributed to the problems.
Mr Beardmore took over the former Cavours hardware store in Swains Lane two years ago.
He added: “If everyone who lived in a mile radius having building works done had insisted their builders came to us, we’d still be there. People want their local independent store when they need it, but they don’t realise the store needs them too.”
Mr Beardmore is concentrating on his other passion – teaching young people the sport of fencing. He runs a training club and hopes to produce some Olympic challengers for 2012. |
 |
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
