Unexpected Closure of Sleaford's Wise Guys Menswear Store
The well-known Wise Guys menswear store, located in the heart of Sleaford near the market square, shut its doors unexpectedly last Saturday, October 21. To the regret of local residents and fellow traders, no official rationale for the closure has been made public.
Reactions from Local Traders and Shoppers
The instance of another vacant unit in the town center has sparked critique and disappointment among local business owners. Rosie Hayre, who is at the helm of the Pet Shop Girls in the proximate Bristol Arcade, voiced her displeasure at the store's closure. She affirmed, "I hope another clothes shop opens up because there's nothing in Sleaford - but maybe just not so expensive."
Local resident, Reece Doughty provided somewhat of a realization check on the matter, implying this instance isn't unique for a small town. "It's no different to where I grew up in Grantham. A lot of shops come and go - some do alright, some don't. It's nothing new, but I do think it's harder in small towns." he said.
Long-standing Residents Saddened by Town Decline
Shopper Rose Fisher, a resident of the town for over eight decades has sadly witnessed the town's deteriorating condition. She expressed, "It's just gone down and down. I feel sad, every time I see another one go. The only thing that ever seems to open is a charity shop."
Wise Guys' History and Future
Wise Guys, which replaced the former Sleaford Clothing Company in 2019, was seen as a prominent clothing shop in the town's landscape. In the wake of Wise Guys' departure, the landlord is advertising the building for lease, offering either long- or short-term options. Meantime, Wise Girls, the sister womenswear store will continue its operations. This adds yet another blow to the town's retail scene, following the loss of its M&Co store in April, a move that resulted in nationwide closure of over 170 stores by the chain.