Landmark department store shuts

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/england/devon/7862379.stm

Version 0 of 1.

One of Devon's oldest department stores, Rossiters, is to shut for the last time on Saturday after 150 years of service to the people of Paignton.

Internet shopping and out of town superstores, compounded by the economic downturn, have meant the store has not made a profit for years.

And with losses of £100,000 predicted this year, the family which owns the store has decided to call it a day.

The store employs 29 full-time and 62 part-time staff.

'Sad day'

Director Nigel Rossiter said: "They are a very special group of people.

"I am very proud to have worked with them."

The store was opened in 1858 by sisters Sarah and Jane Rossiter.

Mr Rossiter said: "It will be a very sad day for everyone who works at the store and for our customers, many of whom have been loyal over so many years.

"While we are very sad that this decision has become necessary, the changes in retailing since we made the announcement have merely reinforced the fact that we made the right decision."