Isle of Wight firm W. Hurst & Son has confirmed that its Freshwater and Shanklin branches will remain open following a comprehensive financial review.
The past year has been one of necessary transformation for the company. Following the closure of the Ventnor location in August 2025 and the implementation of essential cost-saving measures, including a voluntary redundancy program, the business has successfully streamlined its operations without the need for further closures or redundancies at this time.
These strategic adjustments were essential to ensure the company remains resilient in an evolving marketplace defined by rising operational costs and the growth of multinational online competition.
The decision to maintain the Freshwater and Shanklin locations was driven largely by the incredible loyalty shown by the local community.
While the retail climate remains complex due to national budgetary measures and changing consumer habits, W. Hurst & Son remains steadfast in its mission to serve the Isle of Wight as it has for over 165 years.
The company continues to offer an exceptionally broad product range across 6 locations, including the newest site within Honnor & Jeffrey near Sandown, which serves customers 7 days a week.
As part of its commitment to modern service, the company continues to provide a robust Island-wide delivery service and a comprehensive online ordering system.
Customers are encouraged to continue their support by visiting our stores or shopping via www.tryhurstfirst.co.uk, where they can benefit from free delivery on qualifying orders.
That’s a shame as I was rather hoping the Freshwater branch would close as the constant parking outside the store on School Green Road makes the road unsafe for traffic and pedestrians.
That’s the Isle of Wight for you
Numpties park where the FCUK they like
There is no law and order on the island when it
comes to parking.
When the Green party win the 2029 election they
will get ALL vehicles off the road, not long to wait.
That will be the only way to STOP B’stards parking
ILLEGALLY
So you think it a shame that Lofty and his wonderfully friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff at H0ursts won’t lose their.livelihoods, and hundreds of Freshwater people won’t have to use up fossil fuels and clog up the roads (and perhaps park badly) to shop at Newport,vodisdas? Actually and if you are capable of rational thoughts, you would see that the thoughtless parkers actually slow down the even more thoughtless drivers who like to tear down School Green Road at dangerous speeds.
Yes just close all the shops if they inconvenience you. I’m sure the Labour Party will pour unlimited funds into Freshwater to support the loss of revenue. Who needs business anyway?
Then people will not be employed
Nice to hear, my favourite island business
always helpful and they go the extra mile.
Wish you’d go the extra mile off Ryde pier
Great news, the Freshwater branch has fantastic people working there and in the westwight it’s essential as we have such poor choice of shops.