City centre store decides to close book department

A city department store has announced a major change to its layout.

Jarrolds has decided to close the book department on the third floor of its long-established London Street store in Norwich.

An internal email sent to staff on Monday, seen by the BBC, explained the decision was made "with a great deal of sadness".

The company, which has operated in Norfolk for more than 200 years, said it was no longer viable to compete with national and online booksellers.

Jarrolds has not yet confirmed if any staff would be made redundant because of the decision but said its book department would likely close at the end of August following a sale of existing stock.

Tim Shattock, the firm's managing director for trading, said: "Jarrolds is proud of its heritage as a printer and bookseller, and we are pleased to have played a significant role in supporting and promoting many local authors and publishers during our long history.

"However, as with every category of retail, the world of book selling has changed dramatically over recent years.

"With large supermarkets and online retailers taking a large proportion of the book market, the sector has grown increasingly challenging, with very tight margins.

"Unfortunately, Jarrolds simply cannot compete with national chains and online stores."

The decision follows the Norfolk company's move to cut the hours of about 70 staff to combat rising costs and the closure of its Wymondham store last September.

Mr Shattock explained that the toy department on the third floor would be extended, alongside the current travel agency and restaurant remaining. Some space will be "repurposed" for storage though.

He added: "This has not been an easy step to take, but it is the right commercial decision for the business."

The business also offers a food hall, wine bars, restaurants, coffee shops, personal shopping services and its Retreat day spa.

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