24 July 2015
The End of an Era for Shambles' Longest Running Business
In today’s retail market where businesses come and go, shops open and close, it’s a privilege to act on behalf of a local business that has decided to close its doors after an amazing 67 years.
EJ Freeborn & Son (originally known as Greenwood and Freeborn) has run its bespoke furniture making and restoration business from the same premises at 2 Shambles since 1948.
John Freeborn (son of one of the original owners, Ernest Freeborn) learnt the trade from his father and began working in the business in 1969 as a 16 year old apprentice. The workshop at the back of the premises is where John spent years crafting and restoring high quality wooden furniture and gifts whilst, in later years, his wife ran the shop at the front.
Barry Crux & Company was delighted when John Freeborn instructed the company earlier this year to market the business and premises. The lease in the premises has been purchased by another traditional craft company – Roly’s Fudge. The company, which was established over 25 years ago in Devon, now has multiple shops across the UK and handmakes artisan fudge in store from traditional recipes.
Meanwhile, John Freeborn will continue his craft at premises just outside the city centre where he can be contacted on the business’ usual number 01904 623153.
We wish both businesses continued success.
