Recently, Taunton has experienced a series of business closures that have understandably cast a shadow over the town’s High Street and community. High-profile names like River Island are closing their Taunton locations, marking the loss of their Somerset presence. Poundland will shut its doors at the end of the month, and sadly, Eat the Bird, a local restaurant, has gone into liquidation, ceasing trading immediately. Alongside these, beloved independent businesses such as Ninkasi, Vintiques, Block, and Coffee & Cream have also closed, intensifying concerns about the town’s economic health.
However, amidst these setbacks, signs of renewal and optimism are emerging. Susie, co-owner of the local gift shop Rocket and Bird, shared encouraging news on the Taunton Independent Quarter Facebook page. Several new ventures are preparing to open: Tap One will transform the former Ninkasi premises; a new café named Piccolo is under construction in the old Wickets/Blue Cactus spot; ‘without Borders’ plans to open a café and gallery in Riverside Place; and Dosha Wellness is nearing its opening in the former Neal’s Yard location. Furthermore, the recently privatized Coal Orchard development is set to welcome new businesses, and another promising enterprise is close to finalizing its launch.
Susie acknowledges the difficulty these closures bring but emphasizes that it’s not all doom and gloom. She calls on the local community to continue supporting Taunton’s businesses—both established and emerging. “There is a new energy in these new businesses and passion in those who are fighting to stay open,” she says. “Keep using us, keep visiting, and keep believing in Taunton’s potential.”
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The impact of closures hits hard on local owners. Coffee & Cream’s owner, Zeta, expressed heartfelt gratitude as the family-run café closed after six years. She reflected on the emotional last day, the loyal support received, and the challenges faced—from the pandemic to decreased foot traffic. Similarly, The Canal Inn near Taunton has temporarily closed as owner Ollie Purvis takes a needed break, promising to return refreshed and ready for the next chapter.
The liquidation of Eat the Bird after financial difficulties with suppliers highlights ongoing vulnerabilities within the local food and hospitality sectors, reminding residents of the fragile nature of business in challenging economic times.
Nonetheless, Taunton’s spirit remains strong. Small business owners like Susie, surrounded by evolving enterprises around them, hold steadfast optimism for the town’s future. They urge locals to rally together and keep supporting the heart of Taunton’s community.