Two of Essex’s best-known department stores have closed their doors for the final time after 144 years in business.
Quadrant, which ran stores in Chelmsford and Braintree, said the decision followed years of “substantial and sustained losses.” The closures mean 51 people have lost their jobs.
Shoppers had flocked to both stores in recent weeks to take advantage of large clearance sales across furniture, fashion, and electronics before the final day of trading on Saturday.
In a farewell message, the company thanked its staff and customers for their loyalty and support.
“Though this chapter has come to an end, the memories we’ve shared will always remain,” Quadrant said. “You’ve been the heart of our stores, and your teamwork and spirit made both branches so much more than just a place to shop.”
The Chelmsford branch first opened in 1881, later expanding to Braintree in 1991. Owned by the Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society, the business became a familiar part of Essex’s retail landscape for generations.
However, like many long-established department stores, Quadrant struggled to adapt to the rise of online shopping and the impact of the pandemic.
Earlier this year, Co-op members voted to close both sites after confirming years of financial losses. The decision came shortly before Chelmsford Star merged with the Central Co-op, which now trades across the East Midlands and East Anglia.
The Co-op said it was working with the retail union USDAW to support affected employees.
While the closures mark the end of a local retail era, the Chelmsford Star name will continue to appear on other Co-op businesses in the area.
