Local toy shop faces closure to make way for 'big brand' retailer

1Jul/100

Local toy shop faces closure to make way for ‘big brand’ retailer

St Albans residents are being asked to show their support for a traditional toy shop facing closure this month.

the St Albans and Harpenden Review reported that The Little Wonders toy shop will be evicted from its town centre premises at the end of July in favour of a “big branded client”.

Owners Elena Ripoll and Andrew Mott are unable to pay the £53,000 annual lease on their shop in the Maltings shopping centre demanded by the landlord, nor can they afford to relocate to another shop.

The shop, which specialises in toys for 0 – 7 year-olds opened eight years ago.

In 2009 it was awarded a Retailer of the Year prize for its welcoming atmosphere and expert knowledge provided by staff, and also came first in the Specialist Shops category.

Ms Ripoll and Mr Mott have post signs announcing the pending closure in their shop window and have launched an online petition to save their business at http://www.petitionbuzz.com/petitions/savelittlewonders.

Ms Ripoll told local reporters: “If we lose our business, we lose our home."

Chorleywood resident Lucy Hurst said: "Little Wonders is what makes St Albans different. Independent shops like this one enhance the look of the city.

"It sells such beautiful and unique toys which you don't find at other toy stores. It's such a nice experience to shop there because you don't get pushed into buying anything and they are so kind."

St Albans resident Lucy Needham added: "I have always bought toys for my nephew and grandchildren from here. It's a proper toy shop and that's what I love about it."