End of an era as butcher John M. Munro closes in Alness after 48-year presence in Easter Ross town
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THE High Street closure of the Easter Ross branch of a well-known butcher after 48 years has been described as “the end of an era”.
John M. Munro shut the doors of its Alness branch for the final time on Saturday with the reason being put down to lower footfall and a struggle to attract customers.
The respected business has branches in Dingwall, Fortrose, Muir of Ord, Tain and Beauly and recently took on a new venture in Inverness.
Managing director Charlie Munro said: “The simple reason is that the shop is just not getting the footfall. It has been struggling to attract customers as with many shops. It’s sad, but it’s just the end of an era.”
Mr Munro added that there had been significant investment in the shop, but this had failed to stem the decline in custom and there was no choice but to close the premises just two years short of what would have been its 50th anniversary in the town.
“We have tried various promotions over the years and we have had some success with those, but only for a short time,” he added.
Fortunately, no jobs will be lost in the closure.
The two members of staff employed in Alness live in Tain and Dingwall respectively and are to be relocated to the Munro branches in their home towns.
Loyal customers will still be able to order meat from the firm through its click-and-collect service.
Flagging the closure in the town, the butcher said: “After 48 happy years in Alness, our shop at 21 High Street will close for the final time. We would like to thank all our customers past and present for supporting us.”
Martin Sutherland posted: “Sad news for the town. I spent many years working there, was good times.”
Beverly Hymers stated: “It was a lovely shop, great staff.”
Evelyn Stewart added: “That’s a shame. Sign of the times. So sad.”
Dingwall butcher set to take on long-established business in Inverness
