News / Wild Leaf
Much-loved plant store to close down citing soaring costs
A much-loved plant store on Gloucester Road has decided to close down for good, citing financial difficulties and rising business rates as the main reasons.
Wild Leaf, located opposite the Promenade on Gloucester Road, has been a fixture since 2017 but will shut down in the coming days.
The popular plant shop, which moved into the former home of the vintage shop Fox & Feather nearly eight years ago, had become a staple on the renowned indie shopping stretch over the years.
However, since 2023, the store has experienced declining sales, compounded by “no sign of economic recovery on the horizon,” prompting owner Tya Shannon to call it a day.
Citing soaring bills, Wild Leaf called it a day
The closing sales, with massive bargains, were tinged with sadness as loyal customers took to social media to express their support and sorrow over the abrupt closure.
During the closing sales on Tuesday, the shop was bustling with gardening enthusiasts eager to bag a bargain. Wild Leaf had sold a wide range of plants, pots, tools, and books.
Shannon admitted that the store’s dwindling trade, hindered by mounting bills that are expected to rise further, had also taken a toll on her health.
The closing sales brought dozens of bargain hunters to the popular shop
Announcing the closure on social media, Shannon posted: “I have poured my heart and soul into Wild Leaf over the last seven years. It’s been a labour of love that has brought much joy and many wonderful people into my life, but has also taken a toll on my health.
“Since the summer of 2023, sales have been in decline and continue to do so. Unfortunately, there is no sign of economic recovery on the horizon, and I am unable to pay my bills. Please check our stories for sale details. I am deeply grateful to all our wonderful customers for supporting Wild Leaf, and to my amazing staff whose dedication has helped me keep going.
“Please continue to shop local as much as possible. Business rates are going up next month for many businesses, and they will need the community’s support to stay open.”
The store will open on Friday for the sale of the remainder of the stock and for two hours on Tuesday to sell the shop fittings and fixtures.
Wild Leaf traded on Gloucester Road for seven years building up a steady client base
All photos: Milan Perera
Read next:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
