Pretty medieval market town loses treasured family-run store | UK | News
A cherished independent greengrocer has closed its doors in a historic Norfolk market town (Image: Getty)
A cherished independent greengrocer has closed its doors in a historic Norfolk market town after three decades of service.
The Norfolk town is now saying goodbye Benbows, which has ceased trading on Market Place in Fakenham, leaving residents without the family-run fruit and vegetable shop that served the 800-year-old shopping district.
The business built its reputation on providing fresh produce to the local community throughout its years of operation.
Active Fakenham voiced “real sadness and disappointment” following news of the closure.
The volunteer organisation works to promote the town and its trading community.
Richard Crook from the group said: “Competition from supermarkets, changing shopping habits, and perhaps changing eating habits have all played a part in the closure of Benbows, along with other small independent shops in the town.
“The fact that it accepted cash only may not have helped.”
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A long-standing Fakenham shop has closed its doors in a blow to the town’s high street. (Image: -)
Personal impact on community
Mr Crook reflected on what the shop meant to him personally.
He said: “For me personally, it means the loss of familiar, friendly faces I met several times a week—often at least once while being gently dragged in by the dog when I was trying to walk past.
“This closure made me reflect on what Benbows meant not only to me, but to Active Fakenham and to Fakenham as a town. Without the ability to pop in for mushrooms or fresh fruit, I will undoubtedly walk into town less often.”
The volunteer described the closure as “symbolic” of shifting patterns affecting market towns across the country.
Mr Crook added that the closure of Benbows was “symbolic” of how towns were changing and that there will “clearly be a loss to the town centre as a whole”.
Residents now face calls to rally behind remaining independent traders.
Owner Denise Benbow previously highlighted struggles facing the town centre when speaking to the BBC in 2023.
Three local banks had closed at that point.
She said: “I think the footfall has changed quite dramatically. It’s very quiet in the shop, especially in the afternoons.”
A greengrocer on Market Place, has shut after more than 30 years of trading (Image: -)
The shop was a family-run business that was widely known for its selection of fresh produce (Image: Getty)
Call to support local traders
Mr Crook urged the community to back independent businesses before more closures follow.
He said: “While new businesses are arriving, some valued services are disappearing. If town centres are to survive and thrive, they must adapt.
“If we value independent shops, friendly faces, and a vibrant town centre, now is the time to show it.
“Wherever possible, please support local traders, use town-centre businesses, and spread the word about what Fakenham has to offer.”
