A longstanding shop in the city centre has closed its doors after 35 years due to rising costs.

The Pen Shop was one of the original stores in Princes Square when it opened in 1988.

But rising costs have forced the business to move out of the shopping centre.

A spokesperson for the Pen Shop said: "Sadly, after trading for over 35 years, the overhead costs continued to rise to a level that was unsustainable and we simply couldn't afford to continue to keep trading in the store.

"We still continue to trade with a full range on our website."

The family-run business was founded in 1946 in Newcastle but has recently been shifting its focus to online retail amid the cost crisis.

Signage has been erected on the first-floor unit, now empty, reading: "We're sorry. This store is now closed."

Glasgow Times:

In celebration of the shopping centre's 30th anniversary in 2018, the Glasgow Times spoke to Geraldine Mason, a former employee in the Pen Shop.

The store was popular for gifts with many customers seeking out the luxury stationary shop for special occasion presents.

Well-known customers have included Billy Connolly, Derren Brown, Rangers and Celtic players and managers, actors, and one Nicola Sturgeon.

Geraldine said at the time: “We treat them like everybody else, though."

Katie Moody, Centre Director, Princes Square, commented:  "We can confirm The Pen Shop, who was a tenant at Princes Square for 35 years, ceased trading in the centre in March 2023." 

To find out more about the Pen Shop or shop online, click here.