Ashford Guns & Tackle

[Sim G]

I first shopped at Ashford Guns over 30 years ago. The business was sold to Kent Wool Growers, a farming cooperative, not long after the handgun ban and the two old boys, Stuart and Dave continued to work in "KWG gun room" for 10 years. Those that then worked in the shop continued their ethos of a fair priced, knowledgeable business where repeat custom was important and relationships built. A couple of those who worked there have become good friends.

Last month the company went into administration. Not the fault of the "gun room" as they were doing well, but the rest of the business wasn't doing so well. It was hoped that something could happen and the gun shop stand alone again, but it's not going to happen. Likewise, 6 months off the businesses centenary year, they've closed the doors for good. Sad day.

Nearest two gun shops are an hour each away and neither are the place I'd like to shop.... bugger.

[Blackstuff]

Always sad to see a gun shop close, especially when it wasn't the owners/managers fault

[Doz]

Is it actually closed Sim G? I have (had?) a branch of KWG near me but as I understood it they were to be run by the administrators while attempting to find a buyer.

[Sim G]

Yep, closed. The guns and accessories at both Ashford and Handcross have been sold to an RFD who will collect this week and KWGs RFD surrendered. The country clothing side may be picked up and operated by an "internal" buyer. The Wool Shed has be bought by British Wool and will operate on site for the next year at least. And the animal food side of the business folds.

They knew last week that no one would take it over as a going concern. The managing director who was brought in to replace The one that retired, three or four years ago, is the man who killed the business. Big city boy jumping all over the place in his big boots, really didn't have a clue as to what was important to country folk...

[ovenpaa]

Sad times.

[Doz]

Yep, closed. The guns and accessories at both Ashford and Handcross have been sold to an RFD who will collect this week and KWGs RFD surrendered. The country clothing side may be picked up and operated by an "internal" buyer. The Wool Shed has be bought by British Wool and will operate on site for the next year at least. And the animal food side of the business folds.

They knew last week that no one would take it over as a going concern. The managing director who was brought in to replace The one that retired, three or four years ago, is the man who killed the business. Big city boy jumping all over the place in his big boots, really didn't have a clue as to what was important to country folk...

Thanks for clearing that up, bloody shame. Still at least Mr big boots will be able to buy his country clothing...