Gazette News
Stationers J R Leefe and Son to close after 100 years
11:05am Wednesday 8th February 2012
A FAMILY business which has served Malton for nearly 100 years is to close next month.
Stationers J R Leefe and Son in Market Place was established in 1914 by John Ripley Leefe as an extension to the family’s existing jewellery shop.
Alistair Leefe, joined his father, Edgar, at the stationery shop 48 years ago when he left school – the fifth generation of his family to work in the business.
“In those days we were encouraged to follow our fathers’ footsteps and take over the family business,” he said.
“Nowadays children have their own interests and it is not expected of them.”
Mr Leefe said he had secured a 15- year lease to take him to retirement and had found the last couple of years particularly hard.
“Retail has changed so much over the years. We used to have gents’ outfitters, grocery stores and a number of butchers but now Malton is a completely different town,” he added.
“We used to have a market on Friday and Saturday and the town was really busy. But once the out-oftown shopping centres came along they destroyed our town centres.”
Mr Leefe, who is married to Jennifer and lives in Wintringham, said he was looking forward to having more time to himself.
“After working six days a week for so long I will be able to catch up on jobs at home and do things I have wanted to do before.
“It is going to be very different and I will miss all the people who come in on a regular basis and have a chat.
“I would also like to thank everyone who has supported me over the years.”