Closure, 28th July 1990

In the Gazette of 27th January 1990 the Partnership announced its intentions to close Pratts along with Jones Brothers of Holloway. Its reasons were varied and justified. The opening of Kingston in 1990 had, as anticipated, impacted trade.

Diminishing demand

The Partnership had previously tried to expand the store. In 1972, it had bought several houses, with the intention of increasing the size of the shop.  This was followed by a difficult tussle with the local borough council. By 1985 the council had finally given its consent to the Partnership plans. However by then too many other centres in the local vicinity had taken the opportunity to develop. The demand for Pratts had diminished, and creating a bigger store would not alter this.

A sad farewell

Pratts finally closed its doors for the last time on Saturday 28th July 1990. Partners bid a sad farewell to the store, but for many this was now the beginning of a new venture, as the majority of the 400 Partners continued their careers at Oxford Street, Peter Jones and Kingston.