Ruby Moon, a fixture of High Wycombe for 26 years, will close in April due to rising costs and difficult economic times.
The shop had loyal customers and was well-known in the area. Recent months proved hard for Ruby Moon, and a burglary also hurt the business.
Owners Matt and Claire Moon decided to close, and they will end their run this April. They shared this news on Facebook and cited several recent challenges.
Import costs rose sharply because much stock is imported. Running the business became impossible, and the cost of living crisis added to the strain.
Christmas sales were the worst ever, despite support after the burglary. Ruby Moon has been in High Wycombe since 1998 and was part of the alternative scene.
Their policy was “Fairtrade whenever possible,” which ensured fair pay for suppliers. They created a safe space for those marginalized by society.
Mr. Moon spoke in October and urged people to support the shop. He said customers would miss them, and the situation felt very uncertain then.
The business will continue, and they will host pop-up shops at the arts centre. Seeing customers return with family felt amazing.
Their post thanked everyone for support, and they will likely close by April’s end. Several other shops are also closing, including Beaverbrooks and others.