Confusion over future of major retailer in Harrogate town centre which was founded in the 1970s

There’s confusion over closure signs at a well-known store in Harrogate town centre.
By Graham Chalmers
Published 19th Apr 2024, 10:52 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Major fashion retailer Monsoon and sister store Accessorize in Harrogate are listed online as being "permanently closed."

But a visit to the long-standing branch of the national chain located at 20–22 James Street shows that, according to handmade signs posted on the windows, the Harrogate shop is, in fact, only closed for a refit.

The signs say: "Sorry we’re closed. But this isn’t goodbye.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad
The sign on the Monsoon and Accessorize store located at 20–22 James Street in Harrogate which suggests the business is only closed for a refit. (Picture contributed)The sign on the Monsoon and Accessorize store located at 20–22 James Street in Harrogate which suggests the business is only closed for a refit. (Picture contributed)
The sign on the Monsoon and Accessorize store located at 20–22 James Street in Harrogate which suggests the business is only closed for a refit. (Picture contributed)

"We are now closed for a refit. Apologies for any convenience."

The leading high street retailer, which at one point boasted more than 150 shops across the UK, has gone through challenging times, culminating in 2020 when it entered into administration before being rescued.

Founded in the 1970s, Monsoon’s owners announced 35 store closures at that time but the Harrogate branch of Monsoon and Accessorize survived the restructuring of this well known business.