Rob Wilson, owner of Kyle Mace store in Kyle of Lochalsh, has announced plans to close the shop after 13 years, citing mounting costs, in addition to personal issues.
He explained how Highland Council had changed the ratings system, so that in a few short years he went from paying zero rates to £6,811. “I don’t make enough money in retail as it is to warrant these rises,” he told SLR. “And then there have been staff cost rises and profit margins are going down a lot as well. I try to stock price marked because it sells a lot quicker and there’s perceived value for the customer, but sometimes you’re only getting 17% on a chocolate bar and you just can’t function like that.”
He has sold the store and plans to move closer to his mother to support her as she has MS.
He described owning the shop as “one of the most rewarding experiences of my life”.
He told customers: “I am incredibly grateful to every customer, friend and supporter who’s been part of this journey. Your kindness and loyalty has meant the world to me.”
The store’s Facebook page was inundated with customer messages thanking him for his “wonderful community service”. One customer called him”a pillar of the community”, while another claimed the store had been “a lifeline” during covid.
