'I've only just heard Marks and Spencer is closing - I can't believe it': Wolverhampton shoppers share grief at loss of iconic high street store
The nearly 100-year-old flagship department store announced its closure earlier this week.
Shoppers of Wolverhampton's Marks and Spencer department store have shared their shock and sorrow at the prospect of losing their favourite store after almost 100 years.
In a surprise to many Wolverhampton visitors, the high-street chain announced the pending closure to the Express & Star on Wednesday, with bosses saying it had been a 'tough decision'.
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Now, shoppers and Wolverhampton residents have talked of their sadness at losing the 'high-street staple' which has eagerly served customers since 1929.
Barbara Beech, 71 and from Ettingshall, has been shopping there for as long as she can remember.
She said: "I've always shopped here.
"I'm quite shocked really. Let's face it, there isn't much reason to come to Wolverhampton now."
Bosses said that they 'appreciate' that the news was disappointing for customers, going on to thank them for their years of support.
Mick Jones, from the Fallings Park area of Wolverhampton, said: "It's terrible. It's kind of the stalwart of Wolverhampton really.
"All the regulars shop there every week. The food halls are good, but you don't get the clothing and other items to do here. It's a sad day."
Regional manager, Calum Telford, told the Express & Star that the store had been 'performing less well' for a long period of time, adding that they had 'never fully recovered' from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Tony and Glenys Nicholls, who do their big weekly shop at the store, said: "I saw the news on Google. It was a real shock.
"I think it just shows the death of Wolverhampton really. It's a nationally renowned name, so it's terrible that it is going. We have a big shop here all the time. It's a real shame."
A closure date has yet to be announced.
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