Future of town’s Trago store under threat as chain consults with staff

THE future of Trago's Falmouth store is hanging in balance as the Cornish-founded chain undergoes a consultancy process with all ofits staff at the outlet.

- BRITTA ZELTMANN

The company said it is not yet able to confirm what the outcome of the process will be but acknowledges it could result in a sale or closure of the landmark store, which has stood on Arwenack Street since the 1970s.

It's understood the business, which also has stores in Liskeard, Newton Abbot in Devon and Merthyr Tydfil in Wales, has attempted to streamline processes and improve in-store experiences across the board but has been unable to stem six-figure deficits.

Chairman Bruce Robertson said its Falmouth store has “survived far longer than many” in an “unrecognisable” retail climate but admitted its options “are limited”.

He said: “Having been at the heart of the town’s former vibrant high street economy for the best part of 50 years has been both a privilege and a pleasure, serving so many loyal customers to whom we are indebted, thank you all.

“Sadly, the passage of time has left the retail landscape virtually unrecognisable, and whilst the store has survived far longer than many, its options are limited, which is why we are now engaging with the local team to hopefully identify an amenable solution.