Department stores Fenwicks "in talks to move into Guildford"

Fenwicks, the venerable, 140-year old luxury department store, might be closing its Bond Street London store early next year, but is reported to be in talks to take on the old House of Fraser store in Guildford.

Fenwick is now the largest family-owned group of department stores in the United Kingdom, with stores in Bracknell, Brent Cross, Canterbury, Colchester, Kingston, Newcastle and Tunbridge Wells.

Rumours have it that the department store is in negotiations to take over the 180,000 sq ft retail store when House of Frazer closes at the end of this month.

Over the last decade, department stories have had a torrid time of it, with House of Frazer, Debenhams and even John Lewis feeling the cold wind of changing consumer behaviour as we all shop more online.

Many department stores are still empty, others are being renovated into apartments, mixed used retail and leisure or, as in the case of the University of Gloucestershire, a new education campus.

John James Fenwick, known as JJ, was born in Richmond, North Yorkshire, in 1846. Early in his career, he learned his trade as a shop assistant, where his passion for retail and customer service grew. In 1882, his ambition came to fruition when Fenwick bought and renovated a doctor's house for £181 and 4 shillings at 5 Northumberland Street in Newcastle upon Tyne. This would become his first store and the start of his legacy: JJ Fenwick, Mantle Maker and Furrier.

Together with two assistants, he sold mantles, silk goods, dresses, fabrics and trimmings. JJ's keen eye for luxury and exceptional care of his clientele made the store especially popular, and soon he expanded his space by purchasing 37, 38 and 40 Northumberland Street. Today, the flagship Fenwick store still stands on the site.