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A SHOP front in the town will soon see a new sign above the door.
Kerry Roberts Barbers, in Alexandra Court, off Denmark Street, has been a Wokingham business for 30 years
This month it has ceased trading.
Joanne Jackson has been its proprietor since 2014, but started working in the shop when she was 14.
“I began sweeping floors and taking coats, but eventually I ended up being the manager,” she said.
“It’s been a big part of my life, and I don’t know any different.”
The Wokingham store is the last of a small chain of barbers that was originally established in 1962 by Ms Jackson’s friend Kerry Roberts.
“There were three other shops, in Camberley, Reading, and North Camp.
“This is the last one to close,” she added.
Ms Jackson says change to Wokingham footfall is one of the reasons she has had to cease trading.
“It’s gone down dramatically since the pandemic,” said Ms Jackson.
“Things just haven’t been the same since then.
“And it doesn’t help that there are now nine barbers in the town.”
Ms Jackson feels that there should be limits on the numbers of each type of trade that are given permission by the council to open in the town.
“We’re saturated with barbers,” she said, “but I think that another barber is set to move in straight after me.”
Another factor in her decision to close was the cost of rent, which was due to rise next year.
“I was beginning to have sleepless nights about it,” she said.
“Then one night I woke up and made the decision to quit.”
Ms Jackson has no plans to open another barber shop, and is instead looking ahead to a new future.
“It’s sad,” she said, “but it’s time to move on, and actually, I’m looking forward to it.
“I will miss all the friendly faces, but I’m excited about the future.
“I’d like to thank my staff, Kerry and Rich for all their hard work over the years.
“They will be missed.
“And thank you to all my loyal customers over the years.
“If any of them see me about the town, I’d love them to stop me for a chat.”
