Sneezums Jewellers and Photographic Retailers closes
Sneezums Jewellers and Photographic Retailers shut its high street doors for the final time on 28 September, after 150 years of trading.
The business was originally established in 1874 on Fore Street in Ipswich by Elizabeth and Yvonne’s great-grandfather, Henry Sneezum.
Situated on the Cornhill and in Central Walk, Bury St Edmunds, Sneezums announced in June the forthcoming closure of the high street store.
The decision came as partners Elizabeth Sneezum and Yvonne Scotford-Sneezum prepared to retire.
The business closed the store on 28 September 2024 with the online business continuing to operate up until December.
Elizabeth and Yvonne said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of our family business. Unfortunately, we do not have anyone in the family to continue our legacy. Our decision was not made lightly, and after much consideration and reflection, we have decided to retire to spend precious quality time with our families and pursue other interests.”
The owners said in June: “For generations, we have had the privilege of being at the heart of the Bury St Edmund’s community, where generations of local families have shopped with our family business over the years. Over the 150 years of trading, our business has evolved to be more than a commercial venture; it has become a cornerstone of our family’s heritage and a cherished part of our lives. Our dedicated staff and customers have played a pivotal role in our journey.
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our exceptionally loyal staff, many of whom have dedicated over 20 years to Sneezums and some who have spent their entire working lives with us, including our longest-serving current member with 48 years and over the course of history, our longest serving staff member was with Sneezums for 63 years, both starting with us straight from school and spending their entire careers at Sneezums. At the time of the high street store closure, with seven current valued members on our team, we were eternally grateful for their unwavering loyalty.”