Kettering wine shop set to close

Majestic Wine has confirmed that its store on the corner of Northampton Road and Northfield Avenue is set to close at the end of the year.

The national chain, which specialises in selling wine by the case as well as beer and spirits, has said increased rent and business rates are among the reasons behind its decision to shut its branch in the town.

A spokesman for Majestic Wine said: “The Kettering branch will close on New Year’s Day 2019.

“Whilst we remain committed to delivering the best possible experience for our customers, rent and business rates increases along with company fulfilment improvements means our presence in Kettering is no longer commercially viable. “However, our customers can still get free delivery, expert advice and free tastings from their nearby Market Harborough and Northampton branches.

“All efforts will be made to keep staff who see their long time future at Majestic within the business.

“We are fortunate that our staffing model and extensive store network enables us provide a flexible solution on a case by case basis.”

The store, which has four members of staff, was Topps Tiles before the wine chain set up shop there.

To let signs have gone up on the side of the building.