One of Aberdeenshire’s most well-known businesses has confirmed it is closing in just over three weeks.
After almost 90 years at the heart of Inverurie’s market square, Mitchell’s Dairy will shut its doors for the last time on Thursday, October 26.
Despite being part of the town landscape since 1928, the family-owned business has blamed the economic downturn and “changing shopping habits” of consumers.
Owners, Judy and Keith Whyte, have also been vociferous opponents of the rise in business rates this year and the financial impact it has had on their outlet.
The Whytes led a rates rebellion and rallied other businesses in the town – under the Inverurie Business Association umbrella.
All 21 staff members working in the shop and tearoom were given notice of redundancy last month and subsequently took part in a consultation with the Whytes to decide a way forward and discuss a possible rescue package.
However, Patrick Mitchell, Judy Whyte and Keith Whyte, the three partners at Mitchell’s, released a statement today which confirmed the closure.
It stated: “The challenging trading environment in the area over recent years, coupled with changing consumer shopping habits and rising overheads, has resulted in many traditional businesses, like The Dairy Shop and Tearoom, being less able to successfully compete with discount grocery stores and online shopping.
“Pat, Judy and Keith would like to thank their customers, suppliers and staff for their support and custom over the many years we have been trading.”
Mrs Whyte was elected as an Inverurie councillor in June this year, and was recently crowned businesswoman of the year at the Pride of Inverurie awards.
Gordon MP, Colin Clark, paid tribute to the firm and said: “Mitchell’s has been a landmark in Inverurie for many years and I will be sad to see it close.
“I know Keith and Judy have done all they can for the employees. It is a great site and I am sure it will be reinvented as a destination for locals and visitors.”
