East Grinstead's Broadleys to close after 128 years

Broadleys in High Street, East Grinstead, first opened in 1896. 

It sells men's and women's clothes from a range of brands including Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. 

The building is Grade II listed and it is one of the town's oldest family businesses, but due to retirement and financial challenges, the fifth generation will not be able to keep it open.

A spokeswoman for the company said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Broadleys, a cornerstone of East Grinstead's historic high street for an impressive 128 years.

"Since our inception in 1896, we have proudly served the local community and have shipped orders all around the world. With unwavering dedication and commitment to offering top-quality products and service that have stood the test of time.

Broadleys has served the people of East Grinstead for 128 years (Image: Jo and Steve Turner)

"As we prepare to bid farewell, we reflect on the remarkable journey that began with George Broadley, who ventured to East Grinstead on the strength of an advertisement at Victoria Station. Little did he know that his business would still be here, seven monarchs later and become an integral part of this town's fabric.

"However, after much consideration, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors. This choice is primarily due to retirement and the financial challenges that regrettably render the continuation of our business by the fifth generation unviable.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to you, our loyal customers, for your steadfast support over the years. It has been an honour to serve you, and we cherish the memories we have created together.

"While this chapter maybe drawing to a close, the legacy of our shop will continue in the records of East Grinstead's history. We thank you once again for your support, and we hope to see you one last time as we say goodbye."

• READ MORE: Luxury fashion store closes after a decade in the Lanes

Broadleys used to be called Broadley Brothers. Pictured here in the second half of the twentieth century (Image: East Grinstead Town Council)

Dozens of residents have expressed their sorrow at the news.

Liz Seddon said: "Like many in East Grinstead area, I have grown up with you always there, from supplying my school uniform through to high street designer clothing.

"So I’m very sad to hear that you are closing. Wishing you all the best for the future."

Sarah Rodriguez added: "What a loss to the town  Slowly but surely, everything we’ve known and relied on over the years is disappearing. Wishing all your staff all the best for the future."

Bronwen Seaton-Wood said: "So sorry to hear this. What a tough decision to take. Huge thanks for always displaying patience, providing a calm environment in which to shop and going beyond to make your clients happy.

"We could not have asked for more."

There will be a closing down sale in store from Thursday, May 16. 

Parts of the building Broadleys is in have been tree-ring dated back to 1351 and some of the original features are still intact.

The shop front now was build from oak and wooden pegs in a traditional style, but dates from only 1966.