Woolsey Cycles Closes After Nearly Seventy Years of Service
Business had been in same family for three generations
Signs on the shop suggest last day of trading was on Saturday
September 30, 2024
Woolsey Cycles has closed its shop on Acton Lane after finishing its final sale this Saturday (28 September).
The family business has been operating since 1955 offering bicycles for sale as well as accessories and repairs.
The shop was originally purchased by Donald Woolsey and had since passed to the third generation with Malcolm Woolsey managing alongside his father, Roger. It had a loyal core of customers due to its personal service and cycling expertise.
The owners had announced their intention to cease trading in July saying, “After three generations of our family and the shop owner before that, the time has sadly come to move on to pastures new. We would like to thank our customers, both old and new, for their continued support over the years. Also, we would like to thank our Staff members that have come and gone over the years, but mainly to David. He has been working in the business for 27 years and at times running it. During Malcolm’s two prolonged sick leave periods, David ran the shop single-handedly and without him involved we’re not sure how we would’ve coped.”
They added, “We have seen many changes over the years, both in life and in bikes with many memories made and laughs over the years, many of which we can thank our ongoing customers for. The occasional gifts we get show the true appreciation from you and means so much to us. The shows of kindness and support during the pandemic were especially well received.”
Woolseys hasn’t specified the reasons for the closure, but pedal bike sales have been falling following a spike during the pandemic. Other retailers have reported that they are seeing more willingness from customers to buy online and supply chain problems has made it more difficult for smaller operators to get stock.
We have contacted Woolseys for more information about their future plans.
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