March 3, 2017 2.53 pm This story is over 84 months old

Ruddocks of Lincoln to close after more than 160 years

One of the city’s oldest family businesses Ruddocks of Lincoln is set to close its doors next month. Owner Henry Ruddock told The Lincolnite on Friday, March 3 the High Street shop, which sells stationery, games, toys and gifts, will close for good on April 15. Some 19 members of staff have been given notice that they face…
Henry Ruddock, owner of the former Ruddocks of Lincoln building.

One of the city’s oldest family businesses Ruddocks of Lincoln is set to close its doors next month.

Owner Henry Ruddock told The Lincolnite on Friday, March 3 the High Street shop, which sells stationery, games, toys and gifts, will close for good on April 15.

Some 19 members of staff have been given notice that they face redundancy.

The closure of the store will not impact Ruddocks Design and Print, and it’s hoped that Henry’s Tea Room (currently located above the shop) will continue.

The company was originally established in 1872 and has been in its current location for 113 years.

Owner Henry Ruddock said: “It is with huge sadness that I have to announce that Ruddocks shop will be closing.

“The shop has not been profitable for many years, despite several attempts to keep the building and the business fresh, by refurbishment of the outside, remodelling a new (old) shop front; refurbishment of the inside; introducing toys and other products; by starting Henry’s Tea Room, and other initiatives.”

He added: “I wish to pay tribute to the staff here who have given everything to try to make it work. They are all going to continue to work here to ensure an orderly closure.

“Without their hard work, willingness to go the extra mile, cheerfulness and efficiency this story would have ended some time ago.

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