Kilmarnock town centre is set to lose another familiar name, with TG Jones preparing to close its doors in the coming weeks.
The closure follows the announcement that the retailer’s Ayr High Street branch is also due to shut, marking the end of the company’s presence in two of Ayrshire’s busiest shopping centres.
One of the biggest immediate changes for Kilmarnock shoppers will be the loss of the Post Office located inside the store. The branch will serve its final customers until 12 noon this Saturday, after which it will close permanently.
For years, the King Street store has been a popular destination for books, stationery, greetings cards, newspapers and everyday essentials, while the Post Office has provided vital services for local residents and businesses.
The latest closure is another blow for Kilmarnock’s town centre and reflects the continuing challenges facing high streets across the country as more retailers reduce their physical store networks.
The situation is mirrored in Ayr, where the Post Office inside the TG Jones store will also close before the retailer leaves the High Street.
The Post Office says it is working to secure alternative locations to ensure postal services continue in both towns, but for now customers will need to use nearby branches once the in-store facilities close.
The loss of another established retailer will undoubtedly be felt by many shoppers who have supported the stores for years, adding to the growing list of changes taking place on Ayrshire’s high streets.