Cairncross closure marks end of an era
Business will wind up at end of July after more than 150 years
A historic Perth jewellers will become the latest city centre business to close its doors as it stops trading after 154 years in business.
Cairncross of Perth, which has traded in the city since 1869, will close down on Saturday, July 29 after the owner Flora Rennie failed to find a buyer in a “challenging” retail sector.
Seven jobs will be lost at the St John Street store.
Bought by Mrs Rennie in 1988, Cairncross built on its heritage for high-end jewellery and watches, earning a distinct place in the market as the only jeweller to hold a licence to sell Scottish freshwater pearls.
Mrs Rennie put the company up for sale in anticipation of her retirement.
But with no buyer coming forward, she has decided to go ahead with her retirement, leading to the closure of the shop.
Mrs Rennie said: “It is with great sadness that we bring Cairncross’ story to an end.
“I am incredibly proud of the business and the people who have cared for and nurtured it over the years.
“Together we have established a reputation for high-quality jewellery, the craftsmanship of own jewellery and exceptional customer service, earning a place in the hearts of many in Perth, in Scotland and beyond, who I know will be sorry to see the doors close.
“At my age, it really is time for me to retire.
“But despite our strong trading record, the retail sector remains challenging and, sadly, a buyer could not be found.
“That left only one very difficult option to take and that was to close.
“My sincere thanks to everyone who has either worked with us or shopped with us over the years.”
Mrs Rennie will continue in her efforts to find a buyer for the business – which boasts a classic B-listed shopfront designed and built back in 1911 – with Knightsbridge brought in as the selling agent.
The long-established business becomes the latest in a line of local shops to close.
This year alone has seen Crew Clothing Company and Paperchase close its branches on High Street.
Since the pandemic neighbouring streets have seen HSBC, Joules, Argos and Edinburgh Woollen Mill vacate the Fair City.
Flagship store Beales closed in March 2020 and remains empty, as is Lakeland which shut in May 2021 but is the subject of a planning application. The large former Debenhams unit on High Street is also still vacant.
Labour Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker led an inquiry by the Economy and Fair Work Committee to explore challenges facing high streets and proposed action to support modern and thriving town centres.
The parliament inquiry was published in November. Convener Claire Baker said: “People do value their town centres and want to have that as part of their community.
“But the way people shop has changed.
“Rising rental costs and shopping online is making it a challenge for the High Street. The number of people hybrid working or working from home also has an impact.”