England’s ‘oldest ironmongers’ closes its last shop after 500 years in blow to shoppers

ENGLAND’S ‘oldest ironmongers’ has closed its doors for the last time in a devastating blow to shoppers. The business has shut down its last shop after almost 500 years of trading. Gill & Co has been trading for almost 500 years Credit: Geoffrey Swaine The beloved local business has closed its doors for the final time Credit: Geoffrey Swaine Gill & Co claim to be the oldest ironmongers in the country, having been operating in the Oxfordshire area for 486 years. The company’s owners shared a heartfelt announcement, confirming that things were coming to an end. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! It was confirmed that the Oxford High Street store, which has been trading since 2004, would be no longer. The site sold hardware, tools, home supplies, ironware, gardening essentials, keys and more. Gill & Co was established in 1530 with an Oxford store initially based off Cornmarket Street. Having moved locations on various occasions over the decades, Gill & Co also had a store in Wheatsheaf Yard which closed in 2010. Dawn and Victor Hunt, the latest owners of the branch, took to Facebook last week to share the sad news that the high street shop was closing. “Today is final day and what an adventure it has been since we opened Gills in 2004,” they said in the statement. Most read in Money They went on to thank those who supported the business, adding: “We are truly grateful for every person who has shopped with us and for the people that have worked with us to make Team Gills. “We’ve met so many people over the years and helped so many of you with your DIY projects – even the ones who decide to take their bathroom apart at 4.45pm on a Saturday!” Signing off, they wrote: “As this chapter comes to an end for us, we are excited for what’s to come – more of our own adventures and spending time with our lovely family. Thank you again for all your support.” Fans of the business shared their sadness over the closure. “Thank you so much – you will be much missed! A new chapter awaits,” one wrote. “SO sad and will be so missed,” added another. Comment now