Maria Dunt, owner of Maria's Florist and Pet Supplies in Calne High Street has revealed plans for the business to continue elsewhere as they head into their final week of residence in the town centre.
Earlier this year we reported that the shop would be closing after Maria made the decision not to renew her lease.
Maria opened the High Street store in the unit next door to the former Shirley's Florist, where Maria had worked until Shirley's death earlier that year in 2019.
However, as 2024 marks the end of the 5-year lease with Wiltshire Council, a combination of circumstances has led to Maria's decision not to renew it.
At the time, Maria told Calne News: "I am not renewing my lease for a few reasons, mostly because to be honest there is just no footfall in the town, it is getting beyond a joke.
"Yes, the thought of another 5 year lease didn't help. What people don't understand is that the lease is against our home, if things go awry we could lose our home and that is a risk I'm not willing to take."
Maria also has personal reasons for taking a step back - a family member is unwell and Maria feels a need to prioritise their wellbeing.
But the good news is, that the business will continue. Teresa and Helen will be running the pet food and plant shop from the Pound Farm Shop in Lyneham, they will be open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm. Anyone who has difficulty travelling to Lyneham can call the farm shop on 07946796459 and they will bring your order to Calne.
Meanwhile, Maria will be running the floristry side of the business from a home studio, still offering delivery or collection. You can call 01249 814505 or 07946796888.
Maria said: "This will give me the much needed personal time I need and continue to do the job I love. We would all like to thank each and everyone of you for your friendship, support, for the laughs we've had, this has been such a difficult decision, but it is the right one. So to new beginnings and hopefully we will see some of you at the farm shop."
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