Geek Retreat manager Liam – who took on the store in July last year, after it was closed for the first time – shared the update in a post published on Facebook
A popular gaming chain has announced it is closing one of its stores – leaving customers devastated. Geek Retreat is saying goodbye to its Bristol branch in order to focus on its Newport store.
Geek Retreat manager Liam – who took on the store in July last year, after it was closed for the first time – shared the “tough decision” in a post published on Facebook. Geek Retreat opened its first store in Glasgow in 2013 and had as many as 57 outlets in its heyday. This figure now sits at just 21, according to the Geek Retreat website.
Liam said: “After a lot of thought, I’ve made the tough decision to close the Bristol store. When I took on both Bristol and Newport, I genuinely believed I could give both sites the time and attention they deserved – even with 30 miles between them. But life changes, and trying to manage both stores across two cities while handling personal things has become too much to do well.
“This isn’t a reflection on Geek Retreat or the brilliant communities we’ve built – it’s a reflection on what I can realistically manage right now. I believe in the Geek Retreat model and what it brings to local communities, which is why I’ll be focusing all my energy on making Newport the very best it can be.
“To everyone who supported Bristol – thank you. Your community spirit meant everything, and I’m hopeful we’ll be back in the city in a new format very soon. In the meantime, your nearest Geek Retreat stores are in Cardiff and Newport, both home to friendly teams and welcoming communities. You can spend your v£’s at either store, or with selected retailers through the Geek Retreat app.”
Geek Retreat fans have been left saddened by the update. One customer said: “Totally understandable. I will miss our chats.“ Another said: “Always said to see a community space close up in Bris, big love from the Hoard Cafe team and best of luck with your other space.“
It comes after furniture store Room Perfected in Manchester announced it is temporary closing for a refurbishment, and is clearing out stock this Easter weekend with an up to 40% off sale. The discounts include coffee tables, dining chairs, rugs, mirrors and accessories, as well as accent furniture, vases and ornaments and marble and quartz side tables.
The store offers free refreshments including fizz, beer, or soft drinks, while you shop, and sweets for kids. Mike Seddon of Room Perfected said the store is being upgraded following feedback from customers. The Room Perfected website will continue to run while the store upgrade is happening.
Mr Seddon said: “As a local shop, we always listen to what our customers need and want. The majority votes are for us to specialise in more furniture such as dining sets, sofas, beds/bedroom, garden furniture and a huge new choice of fab and funky accessories and artwork as well as a new selection of contemporary furniture.
“When the refitted showroom reopens, Room Perfected will be THE place to find quality furniture in Greater Manchester with a focus on style and design but the new aim is to offer you much more bang for your money (or buck) so you can get the designer look for a lot less £’s, with awesome daily and weekly deals for in-store customers. Our new ranges and prices will be totally irresistible so watch this space for more announcements.”
He continued: “Don’t miss your chance to GRAB gorgeous designer furniture & accessories at prices you’ll never find again, anywhere. High-end furniture at CLOSING DOWN SALE PRICES.”
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