Media Release

The County Stores, Taunton, announces it is "business as usual" but in the long term iconic store will still be looking for new tenants

10 January 2017: Independent retailer The County Stores, Taunton, has announced its intention to continue trading for the foreseeable future.

The firm, which last year announced its proposal to close its doors at the end of January 2017, has made the decision to keep trading in 2017.

County Stores Director, James Duder, commented, "We have been overwhelmed by the huge amount of support from customers and staff who expressed sorrow at the proposed closure and urged us to stay open."

He went on, "Although long term we are still looking for prospective tenants to take over the premises, we are listening to all those who have said they want the Stores to stay open, and people will now have the opportunity to show their support and enjoy the unique ambience of the County Stores."

The County Stores has been trading in Taunton since the mid-1850s and looked as if it was going to become another high street casualty of 2016.

James commented that he was particularly grateful to many of the 61 staff who had stayed loyal to the business and have continued to work throughout this challenging period.

The Post Office will also remainopen inside the shop and is run as part of the Taunton business.

The two petrol stations owned by the company at Curry Rivel and Williton are not affected.

Further press information: Jane Adkins, A Head for PR, Mob/: 07960698089 or Email/:jane@aheadforpr.co.uk

January 2017