Forced out by high rents

An independent lingerie shop in the town centre has closed.

Elegance Lingerie in High Street served its final customers in Ashford last Thursday following four years of trading.

Owner Dawn Luck opened the shop in 2013 in the site of the former Pinkies nail salon at 73a High Street.

But due to increasing business rates, the bra-fitting expert has made the tough choice to move her business to Hythe.

Ms Luck said: “I have a good business. It’s a specialist lingerie shop with cup size up to a J.

“I’ve got 12 years’ experience in bra fitting.

“I came to Ashford four years ago, and all the time the rent and rates are increasing, and the footfall in Ashford over the last 12 months has just been shocking.

“All the overheads are increasing and I can’t do it any longer.”

Elegance also offer mastectomy bras and worked with cancer units across Kent.

But it’s not all bad news, as Ms Luck is now moving her lingerie store to new premises in Hythe.

The business will move to 141 High Street and open on Friday, July 14, at 10am.

Ms Luck continued: “I’m going to smaller premises so I my rent is more affordable.

“I’m sad to be leaving, I love the shop but I can’t make my business work while it is still here in Ashford.

“All my customers have said they’ll all come and find me.

“It’s all positive. I’m really looking forward to my new challenge.”

All stock was moved out last Friday.

The shop had previously been shortlisted for a national award for the best newcomer category in the Stars Underlines Best Shop Awards.

Aquarius Beauty Clinic on the lower level of the building will remain open on the same site.

Dawn Luck, owner of Elegance Lingerie