Northampton jewelers to close business after nearly 50 years

The owner of the jewelry store has announced that his business in town will be closing following his retirement and due to the difficult conditions of local retail.

Steffans Jewelers in Northampton’s Abington Square will begin its closing sale on November 9, after 48 years of business in the town.

Owner Steffan Suter founded the jewelers in 1976, when he was 24, and after 18 months of trading he was able to take over the unit next door and expand his shop.

Mr Suter said: “I was hoping for 50 years in Northampton but the town’s retail environment is not as good as it used to be.”

Mr Suter’s son Wes, who started working in the store aged nine, said the family had “done their best” to support Northampton but had encountered resistance when proposing ideas that would make the town center more attractive to consumers.

Mr Suter added: “(The proposals for changes) have been met with a resounding no (from council) and that is disappointing.”

Mark Mullen, operations manager for Northampton city center Business Improvement District, said: “There is huge positivity around the new Market Square and the upcoming work to be completed on Abington Street and Fish Street, as well as the arrival of Stack, is the start of a bright future for Northampton city centre.” “A period is beginning to emerge.”

The BBC has contacted West Northamptonshire council for comment.

Although the Northampton location will close its doors, father and son recently opened a new branch about 20 miles away in Market Harborough, Leicestershire.