THE manager of Helensburgh's Waitrose supermarket has thanked the store's customers for their loyalty and understanding as the shop's last day in business approaches this weekend.
Kevin Sharkey said he and his staff were "so grateful" for the support shown by the Helensburgh public since the store's closure was announced at the beginning of March.
That support has been demonstrated by the adding of more than 200 messages to a 'book of appreciation' placed in the store by local business chiefs after the closure was confirmed.
The shutters will come down on the Cardross Road building’s life as a Waitrose store for the last time at the close of business this Sunday, May 3.
The rival Morrisons chain has bought the site, though it's not yet clear when the store will open in its new guise.
Mr Sharkey said: “We are so grateful for the kindness and support that has been shown by many of our customers and local businesses for our Helensburgh partners.
“It underlines how much we will miss being part of the community here and how sorry we are that we are unable to postpone the closure during what are very challenging times for everyone.
“When we first opened our doors seven years ago our ambition was to be here for a very long time.
“But despite the investment we made, and the incredible efforts of our team working here, the shop is just not sustainable for us.
READ MORE: Waitrose confirms that its 'unsustainable' Helensburgh store will close in May
“It’s therefore with great sadness and disappointment that we will close our doors for the final time this weekend, which just leaves me to say a huge thank you on behalf of my team to our customers for their loyalty, custom and understanding.”
The 'book of appreciation' is the result of a joint initiative by Helensburgh Community Council and the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce.
Messages left in the book since it was put in place at the end of March include one from Shona O’Brien, who wrote: “Such a shame. Lovely staff, not to mention a great choice of foods, and not all more expensive than other outlets, in spite of what people may think.”
More controversially, John Humphreys wrote: “Shutting this shop is an act of criminal vandalism! Excellent staff, always friendly – a breath of fresh air in the cut-throat, profit orientated world that threatens to belittle us all. Shame on Waitrose!”
READ MORE: Helensburgh 'reeling' after shock news of Waitrose supermarket's closure
And twins Harry and Ivy Orr, who moved to the area with their parents Paul and Joanne when they were just five months old, and who have become regular shoppers since then, added the voice of the younger generation, with Harry writing “Miss you staff” and Ivy adding: “You are a rainbow.”
Local businessman Roger Ferdinand, a member of both the community council and the Chamber of Commerce, said: “At last count more than 200 people have taken the opportunity to sign the book.
“The idea was welcomed by the Waitrose partners, who continue to deliver their high standard of service under the trying circumstances we are all experiencing.”
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