AN established family shop is closing after nearly a century in business.
Machins has been based in High Street since 1906 and is set to shut at Christmas.
Boss Andrew Machin, aged 50, blamed competition from companies such as Homebase and Wilkinson for the demise of the store founded by his grandfather Herbert Reginald Machin.
He said: "The firm is not disappearing, we have just decided it is not longer feasible to run the shop. Trade has really slumped.
"I will still be supplying local firms, but getting rid of the shop will reduce our overheads."
Mr Machin owns part of the premises and does not yet know who will be moving in.
Wychavon District Council's town centre manager, Lew Hammond, said: "I am very surprised to see this successful business selling up, particularly in view of better times which are clearly ahead for the High Street."
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