Shops / News
Arts non-profit announces branch closure
A shop spotlighting local artists and sustainability has announced that it is being forced to close one of its branches.
It was shared on social media that PRIOR, a not-for-profit company consisting of two shops, workshop spaces and galleries, will be closing down its Quakers Friars location in 2026.
The store has been open in its Cabot Circus location for more than four years, but owner Beck Prior has shared that they are struggling to stay afloat.
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She shared: “Having PRIOR in this location has brought me an enormous amount of pride and joy – but the personal sacrifices I’ve made over the years, as well as those made by my staff, have become too difficult to sustain.”
Prior shared that, in order to cover the non-profit’s deficit and avoid liquidation, PRIOR would need to reach a sales target 50 per cent higher than last year.
She implores people to shop local this Christmas, to help keep businesses like PRIOR afloat.
She wrote: “Give as little as you can to the tax-avoiding companies this Christmas, and as much as can to businesses that support the local community and economy.
“You vote every day with your money. Spend wisely.”
Prior celebrates the local arts community – photo: Mia Vines-Booth
PRIOR’s smaller site on Church Road in Redfield, as well as their online store, will remain open.
Prior says there is hope of reopening the store, but that developments to Quakers Friars mean that she needs to rework her existing business model.
She said: “My staff – past and present – have tried everything we possibly can, so while Quakers Friars is also redeveloping, it’s time to take a break, reflect and write a new business plan.
“We will find our way back with our retail anarchy. We’re just not yet sure when, or in what form.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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