End of an Era as Southons of Salisbury Announces Closure After Nearly 120 Years

One of Salisbury’s oldest family-run businesses is preparing to close its doors for the final time, marking the end of an era for the city centre.

Southons of Salisbury has confirmed it will permanently close following the retirement of managing director Chris Southon, bringing nearly 120 years of trading to an end.

The long-established furniture store has been part of Salisbury’s retail landscape since 1907 and has operated from its Catherine Street premises since 1924. Over the decades, generations of local families have visited the store for sofas, beds, dining furniture and home accessories.

In a statement announcing the closure, Chris Southon described the decision as “very sad” after three generations of family involvement in the business. He said there was no family succession in place and highlighted the increasing commercial pressures facing independent retailers.

The company said it would continue operating while remaining stock is sold through a major closing down sale, which opened to the public earlier this month. Customers, suppliers and staff will continue to be supported throughout the closure process.

For many Salisbury residents, the announcement has sparked sadness and nostalgia. Social media users have shared memories of visiting the store with parents and grandparents, while local figures described the closure as “a big loss to the city centre.”

Image:(C Lino)

Southons became well known for its personal customer service and traditional approach to furniture retailing, standing apart from larger national chains. The business stocked a range of recognised furniture brands and built a loyal customer base across Wiltshire and the surrounding areas.

The closure also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by independent high street retailers across the UK, with rising operating costs and changing shopping habits continuing to impact long-established businesses.

As Salisbury says goodbye to another historic independent store, many residents will remember Southons not just as a furniture shop, but as part of the city’s heritage and community life for more than a century.