400 corner shops close

More than 400 corner shops have closed down in the last two years, and trade is down by more than 15% for those still in business, according to the chief executive of the Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association.

Vincent Jennings said shop owners are facing a huge uphill battle to keep their open signs up. He warned the recession is taking its toll, with the Government, banks, and wholesalers heaping more pressure on shopkeepers.

“Banks are withdrawing overdraft and loan facilities, leaving some shop owners unable to weather the economic storm,” he said.