A HEREFORDSHIRE gift shop will be closed this week after seeing its sales drop by around a half - with customers being warned that a break clause could be activated on its five-year lease if it is not financially viable. 

Simon and Sally Powell opened Motif in Drapers Lane, Leominster last July, with the shop selling a variety of items including clothes, scented candles, bespoke stationary and glassware. 

The couple also helped out locals in the town who were struggling with the rising cost of living by donating one percent of all its turnover to Leominster Food Bank. 

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However, writing on its Facebook post last night (Sunday), Mr and Mrs Powell said that the business is struggling, with last week being its worse six-day trading week since it opened.

"So far this year our sales have declined by approximately 50 per cent over those achieved between July and December 2022 and the trend is getting worse not better," it reads.

"Last week was our worst six day trading week since we opened and as a result we have decided to give ourselves a week off to recharge and get our heads back into a positive space.

"It is extremely difficult to manage a business under these circumstances.

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"Each day we try to produce a vibrant, interesting, well stocked and well presented shop whilst providing a welcoming greeting and personal customer service to anyone who steps through our door.

"After six months of pretty much daily disappointment we need a break."

Confirming that opening hours will change to 9.30am to 4pm from next Monday (July 3), Mr and Mrs Powell added that people should think carefully about how they spend their money.

"Times are tough for nearly everyone," they said.

"Food costs, heating costs and now mortgage/rental rises mean that all of us have fewer pennies to treat ourselves or others.

"We understand, we really do, as we have to struggle with the same cost of living rises that you do. We also know from conversations with other businesses that we are not alone in experiencing difficult trading.

"If there is a business you appreciate (and it doesn't have to be ours) then do your best to support it otherwise it might not be there come 2024."