HUGELY popular Malvern gift shop, Iapetus Gallery, will be closing after 18 years.
The shop, which sells unique handmade jewellery, gifts, homeware and art to Malvern, will be closing its doors by the end of August.
The shop owners, husband and wife Anna Brook and Chris Marks, said they had made the decision as they needed to find a less 'stressful relationship with work.'
The cherished business has been consistently voted Malvern's number-one gift shop.
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Mrs Brooks said they tried to find a new owner to continue the Iapetus legacy, but due to the current economic climate, that proved difficult.
She added: "As much as we are proud of what Iapetus gallery is and what we have achieved, we both need to find a less stressful relationship with work and move on to more fulfilling adventures.
"We've poured our hearts into Iapetus, meaning we’ve often had to sacrifice time with the people we love.
"Life is precious and we don’t want to continue like that.”
The couple also expressed their 'immense gratitude' to their loyal customers, dedicated team members past and present, and the talented artists and makers they have collaborated with.
Mr Marks added: "Our amazing customers are the heart of Iapetus.
"We've cherished every visit and every purchase.
"Thank you for your unwavering support throughout our journey.
"While our time at Iapetus Gallery is coming to an end, Great Malvern is still brimming with fantastic independent shops.
"Please keep supporting these local gems - use them or lose them as they say.”
Heartbroken customers took to the Iapetus Facebook page to express their sadness at the news.
One said: "Malvern has been so lucky to have such a wonderful shop full of beautiful goodies for so long.
"It'll be a massive hole right through the heart of Malvern and a tremendous loss for the town."
Another said: "Was so sad to hear the news but I wanted to wish you all the very best for your future adventures."
Iapetus Gallery is having a farewell sale with 15 per cent off all its remaining hand-crafted gifts, jewellery, art and homeware.
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