Carracks Crookes: Sadness as beloved Sheffield decorating shop with celebrity link closes down after 78 years
It has a proud history dating back nearly 80 years and celebrity links - but a popular Sheffield shop has now closed for the last time.
Painting and decorating shop Carracks opened back in 1947, by the parents of Sheffield-born Mike and the Mechanics singer Paul Carrack, on the corner of Stothard Road, Crookes.
But today, the shop has a closure notice on the shutters, after current owner Simon Bradbury decided to call it a day, after a difficult period of trading since lockdown.
After a busy period during 2020 when people carried out large amounts of DIY when they were househound, he feels the market has slowed down because everyone got their work done five years ago, leaving trade quiet ever since.
He told The Star: I’m gutted that it’s gone, but relieved, because it has been so stressful in the last few years. I’m sad that it’s gone, but it’s time for me to move on.”
He said the DIY market had previously been their bread and butter, but had fallen away in recent years
Simon worked at the shop when it was run by John Carrack. John is the older brother of singer Paul, and the shop was originally opened by their mum and dad Ben and Joan.
Simon took over the business in 2016.
Simon himself, who is a painter and decorator by trade, now plans to go back to working as a painter and decorator, with his son.
But the 52-year-old hopes to keep the name Carracks alive in the industry if he can in the name of his new business.
A notice on the side of the shop thanked their customers, but also described the effect of some trade customers failing to pay their bills.
It stated: “After many wonderful years, we have made the difficult decision to close our long established business.
“It has been an honour to serve our community and we are deeply grateful for the loyalty, trust and support our customers have shown us over the years. Your kindness and continued support have meant more to us than words can express.
“We also feel is is important to acknowledge that, over the years, there have been many instances where products were taken on trade accounts without payment. Those people must realise what impact this has on a small business.
“While we always strived to operate with trust and goodwill, these losses have unfortunately contributed to the challenges leading to our decision to close. We share this not in blame, but in honesty, as we reflect on the realities of running a small business.”
Simon said said he had "absolutely loved" working in the shop, and felt that shops like his have expert knowledge many of the high street chains lack.
He added John Carrack supported his decision to close.