The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) in Salcombe will soon be closing down. The popular shop, which sells items from clothing to home furnishings to electricals, is going to lose its place on Island Street due to redevelopment plans.

The shop is known for its affordable pricing and will be deeply missed by the community, especially as prices increase during the cost of living crisis.

One Salcombe resident, Nikki Hawtin, said, “I’m shocked and disappointed that it is closing because I believe it’s the only shop in Salcombe that all local people use. If there’s ever anything I need, I just pop to TOFs. I’ll now have to drive to Kingsbridge, Plymouth or order online to get affordable essentials.”

A spokesperson for TOFS said: “As the landlord is looking to redevelop this site, it means that unfortunately we have been served notice to exit the lease at our Salcombe store in March next year.”

Staff at Island Street will be leaving the store in Spring 2023. There is uncertainty as to what lies ahead for those employed at TOFS but plans for them to continue employment elsewhere are hopefully being put into place.

The spokesperson said: “We are seeking to redeploy colleagues that have been affected and we hope to find alternative premises in the future. Our next nearest branch is in Plympton.”

TOFS is a chain that aims to supply affordable goods. Their first store was established in 1969.

They say: “Our aim was to offer the local community more than just a great range of products and unbeatable value. We wanted to be the beating heart of their community. To be there for those who needed us. To support local groups and charities and provide jobs to people within the community – and that’s exactly what we did... now over 165 communities benefit from... The Original Factory Shop.”