Mostyn McKenzie, a beloved shoe chain, has permanently closed its last store in Perth, Scotland, on May 2, 2026, after 60 years of operation due to rising costs and changing shopping habits.
The decision to close follows the earlier shutdown of all other Mostyn McKenzie locations, including the flagship store in Aberdeen in 2023. Sources indicate that this closure marks the end of an era for a brand that once thrived in high street retail.
According to Graeme McKenzie, the company’s representative, “Costs have increased, shopping habits have changed, we’re finding footfall in Perth has dropped considerably, and our costs have just increased.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend affecting many retailers who have struggled to adapt post-Covid.
Mostyn McKenzie specialized in comfort and style, offering well-known brands such as Gabor, Rieker, and Josef Seibel. However, the impacts of Covid have been particularly severe; Graeme McKenzie noted that “the shoe shop had never really recovered from Covid,” which likely contributed to dwindling customer numbers.
In an effort to clear remaining inventory before closing, Mostyn McKenzie launched a clearance sale with discounts of up to 70% off online stock. This move aligns with strategies employed by other retailers facing similar challenges.
Key facts:
- Mostyn McKenzie was founded in 1966.
- The flagship store in Aberdeen closed in 2023.
- The final day of business for the Perth location is May 2, 2026.
The closure raises questions about the future of high street retail not only for Mostyn McKenzie but also for other similar businesses adjusting to a new economic landscape. As consumer preferences evolve towards online shopping and away from traditional retail environments, it remains uncertain how many more stores may face similar fates.