One of Europe’s oldest department stores is facing closure after having served the people of Bath for more than 200 years – and Somerset Live readers have been sharing their memories, and wondering how it all went wrong.
Displays in the windows of Jolly’s in Bath say that they are closing down, and that “all stock must go”. Bath and North East Somerset Council, who own the building, appeared to have been caught by surprise by the announcement, saying: “The council was unaware of the intention of the current occupier to put up the notices which have appeared in the windows of the store.”
The council say that they are in talks with another party about the future of Jolly’s, which they aim to make “the anchor store for Milsom Street”. Frasers Group, the current occupier, have not responded to a request for comment. The store is understood to close in February 2025.
Having been around for so long, it’s no surprise that many have fond memories and tales to tell about Jolly’s. On our Facebook page, Ally Allen writes: “So sad. Jolly’s brings back so many happy memories, especially when I lived near Bath when I was very young.”
Kay Stanton says: “I never realized the history of the building til recently. Regrettably the days of department stores are quite weak now. Not surprised it’s closing.”
Jacqueline Hopkins writes: “Very sad! My grandmother used to work there as a seamstress, and made men’s shirts for a shilling (5p) a time, this must have been prior to 1900!”
Sara Corbett says: “Very sad. I have many happy memories of shopping there with my mother” Lisa Smith writes: “How sad – no dept. store other than M&S.”
In our comments section, readers were pessimistic about retail in Bath. Commenter Realitycheck2023 says: “A nice shop and a real shame, but if folks don’t go and spend money on-site, any business is going to pack up.”
WestonSteve writes: “Lost its edge years ago when it reduced the range of quality goods it stocked.” Western Lord says: “There’s a cost of living crisis and many of their price tags look like jokes.”
In the 1810s, James Jolly set up a linen drapery store in Deal, Kent. The business thrived, and by 1823 he opened a seasonal store in Bath for his son Thomas. The shop was a success and by 1830 became a permanent shop. In 1970, the business was purchased by E J Dingles and Co, who in turn were purchased by House of Fraser – and now by Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group.
Following a major refurbishment of the Milsom Street store in 2014, the Jolly’s name was revived – but it would appear that the revival might not last any longer with signs in the window of its impending closure.
Have your say! Is there a future for the traditional department store in city and town centres? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.