Beloved Jolly’s Department Store in Bath Set to Reopen After Sudden Closure as Morleys Takes Over and Begins Major Refurbishment

After a period of uncertainty, Jolly’s department store in Bath is making a comeback, bringing hope to the local retail scene.

The much-loved store, which closed unexpectedly in December, is now set to reopen following a significant refurbishment.

This positive development has been welcomed by the community and marks a rare victory for traditional British retail.

Sudden Closure Shocks the Community

When Jolly’s shut its doors at the end of last year, it left both locals and staff in disbelief.

Over 100 employees, some with decades of service, were impacted by the abrupt closure.

Despite their disappointment, many staff members showed dedication by staying until the store’s final day.

The closure was particularly devastating given Jolly’s rich history, having served Bath for nearly two centuries.

The sudden shutdown was attributed to the challenges faced by department stores in adapting to modern retail demands.

Morleys Steps In to Revive Jolly’s

Just a month after its closure, news emerged that Morleys, a London-based department store chain, would take over the site.

Morleys has committed to restoring Jolly’s to its former glory while maintaining the traditional department store model.

The company’s CEO, Allan Winstanley, emphasized their intention to preserve Jolly’s name and uphold its historical significance.

Morleys’ approach focuses on tailoring each store to the local community, ensuring Jolly’s remains a key shopping destination on Bath’s popular Milsom Street.

Commitment to the Local Community

General Manager Jess Merritt-Johns, who has been rehired to oversee the transition, expressed her excitement about the store’s revival.

She praised Morleys for respecting Jolly’s heritage and its unique role in Bath’s retail landscape.

Merritt-Johns highlighted Morleys’ focus on curating the right brands and delivering an exceptional shopping experience.

While many former staff members found new employment after the closure, several have expressed interest in returning once Jolly’s reopens.

This sense of loyalty underscores the deep connection between the store and the local community.

A Rich History of Service

Jolly’s has long been a symbol of customer service excellence.

Founded in 1811 as a linen drapery business by James Jolly, the store evolved into one of Europe’s oldest department stores.

Over the years, it changed ownership multiple times, eventually becoming part of Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group.

Despite surviving for decades, Jolly’s struggled in recent years.

Extensive refurbishments were required, and Frasers Group eventually decided to close the store without explanation.

The decision disappointed many locals who cherished Jolly’s as a key part of Bath’s retail identity.

Challenges in the Retail Sector

The reopening of Jolly’s comes at a time when traditional department stores are under increasing pressure.

Brands such as Debenhams and BHS have vanished from high streets, and even Morleys has had to close one of its stores in Tooting due to financial constraints.

Retailers are also grappling with rising costs, with businesses like Sainsbury’s cutting jobs to offset financial pressures.

Meanwhile, Frasers Group continues to rebrand many of its House of Fraser stores, blending its designer offerings with outlets like Sports Direct and GAME.

Looking Ahead

While the retail industry faces ongoing challenges, Jolly’s reopening offers a glimmer of hope for British high streets.

With Morleys’ commitment to preserving the store’s heritage and creating a tailored shopping experience, Jolly’s may once again become a thriving hub for Bath’s shoppers.