A BURNHAM-ON-SEA business will cease trading tomorrow (Friday, September 9) after it was “hit hard” by the pandemic.

The owner of BOS Interiors, a blind and curtain showroom with a café/tea room, announced its closure on Tuesday, September 6. 

All blind and curtain orders made by customers will be fulfilled.

In a statement on Facebook, owner Julia Stradling said: “I write this message with a heavy heart.

“On Friday, September 9, BOS Interiors/Coffee, Cake & Curtains will cease trading.

“The last decade has seen the soft furnishing industry become increasingly competitive, with online retailers selling at low prices impossible for me, a small business, to match.

“In 2019, I decided to diversify and converted half of the factory into a café. Coffee, Cake & Curtains was popular and well received by the community.

“Unfortunately, the pandemic hit hard and the business has not been able to recover.

“To my employees, past and present, thank you for your contributions and support over the last three decades. There would not have been a shop without you.

“To my customers, thank you for visiting my little shop at the other end of town, whether you purchased some curtains or a cup of tea, I appreciate your business and will miss you all (and your four-legged friends).”

Customers have expressed their sadness at the “unique and friendly” shop's closure. 

One commented: “Was really sad to hear this news. We loved your very unique café, and bought curtains too.

“Best wishes for the future Julie. Oh, what beautiful cakes we enjoyed, too.”

Another said: “I always loved your amazing variety of chairs and their fabulous upholstery.

“So very sad to see yet another local business close. Wishing you luck in wherever life takes you next.”