A popular fragrance brand has announced it is to close its Aberdeen store.
Molton Brown, which has a store on the city’s Union Street, confirmed the closure of its Aberdeen branch.
And community leaders have spoken of their sadness that another high street name is closing its doors in the city.
In a statement, a spokeswoman for Molton Brown said: “We can confirm that the Aberdeen branch of Molton Brown will be closing its doors.”
It comes after fashion chains Oasis and Warehouse collapsed into administration during the coronavirus lockdown.
The job losses, which came across the brands 92 stores and 437 concessions, included a number in Aberdeen.
Deloitte said that all stores would close indefinitely and online sales would be stopped.
Councillor Sandra Macdonald, who represents George Street and Harbour, said: “I’m disappointed to hear of another business that hasn’t been able to open their doors.
“I feel for the members of staff involved and it is sad to hear of another business in Aberdeen going through this at such a difficult time.
“It’s not just the current coronavirus pandemic we are living through, there are other factors at play too including the economic downturn we are experiencing.
“It’s not good for any of us and my thoughts are with the staff members involved.”
In 2017, a Union Street Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS), was launched. The five-year initiative aims to “restore the majesty” of Aberdeen’s main street, and is a £2.4 million grant fund which is available to owners of eligible buildings to undertake high quality repairs, restoration and the refurbishment of buildings.
The scheme is currently planned to run until 2022.
Councillor Michael Hutchison, who represents George Street and Harbour, said: “I’m sorry to hear the news about Molton Brown and my thoughts are with the staff who work there during this difficult time.”
Meanwhile, the director of Lawrence Milne Decorators, Kevin Milne, announced the store at the Berryden Retail Park in Aberdeen would be closing down at the end of February.
He said the outlet, which has operated in a variety of locations, closed due to “rising costs and tough trading conditions in the retail market”.
This article originally appeared on the Evening Express website. For more information, read about our new combined website.
