A POPULAR shop in a major Scots city is to close its doors this week after 32 years in business.
Shoeperior, situated on Nicolson Street in Edinburgh’s Southside, first opened back in 1992.
But after just three weeks in business, owner Dave McKiernan was forced to relocate down the road after a fire engulfed the premises.
The 74-year-old has announced the shutters will be pulled down on the much-loved shoe repair and key-cutting store as he prepares for retirement.
Dave thanked loyal customers for supporting the business as he revealed his plans after work.
The last day of trading will be Friday, November 29.
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He told Edinburgh Evening News: “I had wanted to carry on until I was 70, then Covid came in and I had to build the business up again after that. I feel like I’ve done my bit now.
“In retirement, I’m looking forward to having lots of holidays. I have not had many holidays in the 32 years I have been here.
“I didn’t think the business would last this long. You can never tell. The first two years were hard, especially with the fire forcing us to move, and then I built up the business from there.
“I would like to thank all the customers from over the years for helping me survive for so long.”
Dave revealed he has served a number of well-known faces over the years.
He added: “I have had a few famous faces in here, including Aidan Gillen from Game of Thrones, and during the festival most years I get actors and comedians coming in to get keys cut.”
Punters flocked to social media to share their fond memories of visiting the shop.
One said: “Amazing wee shop, sad to see it closing. Been cutting keys for me since I was losing keys at 13. Amazing guy.”
Another put: “Dave is a lovely guy, used his shop regularly many years ago. Always very friendly and had a good natter with you. Hope you have a well-deserved retirement.”
A third added: “What a shame! I will miss him so, so much!”
A fourth weighed in: “Absolutely gutted. Dave is the most reliable key cutter in the city. Definitely going to miss him. Happy retirement Dave.”
A fifth commented: “Shame it’s closing but you can’t go on forever.”
Elsewhere in Edinburgh, we told how a huge discount chain announced the closure of a “lifeline” Scots branch.
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