Shops / News

Family-owned shop to close after almost 60 years

By Martin Booth  Monday Mar 17, 2025

The family owners of a shop that has been open for almost 60 years have announced that they will be closing in the summer.

Marcruss Outdoors in Hotwells sells outdoor equipment, camping, army surplus and workwear.

Writing on social media, the owners say “it is with a heavy heart” that they have made “the difficult decision” to close the shop on Hotwell Road.

Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
Keep our city's journalism independent. Become a supporter member today.

They wrote: “Unfortunately, the harsh economic climate has made it impossible for us to continue.

“Despite having weathered countless recessions and even the challenging lockdowns, the final blow has come in the form of the Clean Air Zone.”

Marcruss Outdoors co-owner Marcus Pinford and Pixie – photo: Hannah Massoudi

Originally founded in 1968, Marcruss Outdoors caters to everyone from military personnel to festival-goers and those experiencing homelessness, also venturing into selling Airsoft products around ten years ago.

The Marcruss statement added: “It has truly been an honour and a privilege to serve each and every one of you.

“We will deeply miss running this shop, as it has been more than just a business to us – it’s been a place where we’ve been able to offer expert advice, exceptional customer service and a sense of community.

“We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have worked here over the years.

“Their loyalty, commitment and hard work have been the foundation of our success.

“We couldn’t have reached the milestones we did without their dedication, and we consider both our customers and staff to be part of the Marcruss family.

“As we prepare to close our doors, we kindly ask for your support in helping us clear our remaining stock.

“We have some fantastic bargains available, and we would love for our loyal customers to benefit from these final sales.

“The closing of our doors will certainly be a loss, and we believe that the vibrant city of Bristol will feel a little less bright without us.

“Thank you for your support throughout the years. We will cherish the memories and are forever grateful for the opportunity to have served you.”

Marcruss Outdoors first opened in 1968 – photo: Martin Booth

Main photo: Hannah Massoudi

Read next:

Our newsletters emailed directly to you
I want to receive (tick as many as you want):
I'm interested in (for future reference):
Marketing and Privacy Policy

Bristol24/7 will use the information provided on this form to send you marketing from Bristol24/7 and selected advertising partners. Your data will not be passed onto third parties. By completing this form, you are consenting to our use of your data for marketing purposes via email.


We will only use your information in accordance with our privacy policy, which can be viewed here - www.bristol247.com/privacy-policy/ - you can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at membership@bristol247.com. We will treat your information with respect.


We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

Related articles

You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Join the Better
Business initiative
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
* prices do not include VAT
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Enjoy delicious local
exclusive deals
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Wake up to the latest
Get the breaking news, events and culture in your inbox every morning

Are you sure you want to downgrade?

You will lose some benefits you currently enjoy.
Benefits you will lose: