Family-run store in Bristol to close after nearly 60 years

Marcruss, an independent store located in Bristol, has announced its upcoming closure, marking the end of an era for a business that has served local customers since 1968. Situated on Hotwell Road, Marcruss has been a fixture for nearly 60 years, specializing in outdoor gear, camping supplies, workwear, and military surplus items, becoming a local institution.

The owners told the BBC that they made the decision to close the store this summer "with a heavy heart," signaling the end of a long-standing business. Co-owner Adam Pinson explained that they had "been through several recessions" and that things were "really bad during Covid, but we got through it with government help." However, with the implementation of Bristol's Clean Air Zone, "people stopped coming," leading to a decline in business. The Bristol City Council has been contacted for comment on the matter.

Mr. Pinson stated, "In my opinion, the people driving old vans are probably the ones who go camping a lot, but they're not prepared to drive through Bristol now." He further added, "We're just stranded now. Nobody is going to pay to come here, and I think being in the zone has destroyed us. We just can't get the footfall." This paints a stark picture of the impact of the Clean Air Zone on local businesses.

Following the announcement of the closure, Mr. Pinson and the other owners of Marcruss stated that they had received an outpouring of support. The store's Facebook page has been flooded with hundreds of messages of support, and many customers have also visited the store in person to express their sadness at the closure, highlighting the community's deep connection with the shop. Mr. Pinson confessed that the public's reaction had been overwhelming: "It's emotional enough as it is, but it's really heartbreaking."

Currently, Marcruss is holding a closing-down clearance sale to liquidate its remaining stock. Mr. Pinson expressed that he felt immense pressure: "There are no plans to reopen. I love what I do, I've been doing it for nearly 30 years. Maybe when it's gone I'll miss it, but at the moment I'll just feel relieved because it's been so stressful." This sale marks the final chapter for Marcruss, offering customers a last chance to purchase items while signaling the end of an era for the beloved store.