Vanity Box- one of Mansfield’s last remaining independent stores is set to close

Mansfield will lose one of its last remaining independent stores when Vanity Box closes its doors for the last time.

The family run business on Market Street, which has supplied designer fashion accessories handbags, jewellery, shoes, perfume and gift items to generations of Mansfield folk is set to close in three months.

Retiring owner Roger Winson, 72, this week thanked customers for their support over the years.

Mr Winson has run Vanity Box since 1984, with wife Kathy and daughter Julia.

The business has been on the same site for at least 50 years.

The closure will mean the loss of seven part time staff.

“I know this has been a difficult week for them,” said Mr Winson.

“We are the last niche shop in Mansfield and it’s a family business and I am sad to see it close but Kathy and I feel the time is right.

“I feel very sad for the team who have always given exceptional service.

“That is a rare thing these days.”

The two floor store is well known for looking after customers, with frequent customer evenings right down to its free cash and wrap service.

Mr Winson said Vanity Box had hit hard times in recent years and had been hit by two major perfume companies no longer supporting the outlet.

Town centre trading was down generally.

“Not so long ago we used to have stalls outside the shop, but with the demise of the market place we stopped doing it.”

The store is inviting customers to redeem tickets and gift vouchers against goods before the closure.

Roger Winson added: “There is a tremendous amount of stock left including boots and jewellery.

“We are currently offering 20 per cent off everything for the next couple of weeks, with further mark downs later on.”

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