Woollatt and Coggin: by Reg Burton©1996

It has been announced that the Luxuries and Curiosity shop in the High Street is to relocate to Gilpin House, ending 162 years of tenacy in the distictive pink building in the High Street.Woollatt and Coggin Limited are due to consolidate their business in Ware High Street over the summer period in order to remain competitive in difficult retailing conditions. Luxuries and Curiosities, currently based at 61 High Street, will move across the road to Gilpin House, 84 High Street (formally Tarlings), where the two shops will become one, selling an extended range of kitchenware on the first floor and their giftware ranges on the ground floor.A spokesman from the Company commented, "This move will ensure Woollatt and Coggin’s continued presence in Ware. It has become more and more difficult to meet the ever-increasing costs of two outlets in the High Street and by consolidating our efforts, we hope to remain competitive and secure the long-term employment of our staff. We are pleased to confirm that no compulsory redundancies are being envisaged with the impending merger."As with all small independent retailers in Ware, Woollatt and Coggin needs the support of the Ware community at large.David Walton, the Town Centre Manager, was disappointed to learn that Woollatt and Coggin are moving. He said, "It is this type of shop that separates Ware and other similar towns from the bigger shopping centres. However the reason shops close is very simple, people are not using them. Unless local shops are supported, the future is likely to see more closing."In the same week Woollatt and Coggin made the announcement the finishing touches are being applied to a new shop that is set to open in the next few weeks.Also redevelopment of the Co-op site in Star Street has began which will allow more shops to open in the town.

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