A shop has shut – after being battered by Covid and rising energy prices. Just Finns was founded by Mark Lawrence when a hobby in his shed and a few fish at his Hanford home ‘accidentally’ turned into a business.
The family opened a shop in Hartshill in 2017, later moved to bigger premises on Campbell Road Industrial Estate, in Stoke, and the business further expanded in 2022 with Just Scales concentrating on reptiles. But Covid had hit trade and ‘increased energy prices’ have also hit business.
Now Just Finns has shut. Just Scales is relocating to Wolstanton.
In a social media message to customers, Mark stated: “It comes with great sadness that we will be closing down Just Finns, the fish part of our business. I have tried to make it work but it’s become so difficult to make money on the fish side.
“Yes I made a mistake in moving to a unit that was very energy inefficient and cost loads to heat. On top of that we have been fighting increased energy prices and Covid has not helped any shops on the high street. It has made us all – including me – lazy shoppers and we have started relying on buying goods online and because of this we have seen an increase in customers coming in to us asking how their filters, lights and other items work because they can’t get advice when they buy them online. Support for shop owners is failing and really all I can say is please support those other shops that help you enjoy this hobby – when all the shops go you will not have a hobby.
“I have met some absolutely wonderful people doing this and will keep in touch with many of you. I have found work elsewhere and a few of the guys will be joining me – at last a better wage, paid holidays, and no stress. I am honestly looking forward to my new start.
“Isla has bought Just Scales from us. Her new premises will be in Wolstanton. Isla’s new shop is already looking amazing. Please support her as she will always look after you.
“To all those who have been part of Just Finns over the past eight years I thank you for your help and support and to the staff – Isla, Mick, Dan, Jake and Paige – thank you very much.”
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