The 103 year-old Ocky White store in Haverfordwest will close in the summer with the loss of 47 jobs, it was announced this morning (Monday).

The decision to close the main store in Bridge Street, whilst maintaining a travel agency operation under the control of Mark White (see below) - was taken as a result of declining sales suffered by many town centre businesses.

Managing director, Jeremy White, said: “This is a terribly sad day for everyone involved with the business and I am particularly mindful of all the loyal and dedicated members of my staff who now find themselves without a job.

"However I am delighted that Mark White has decided to continue running Ocky White Travel Ltd from a new site, thereby securing all the bookings already received.

"The traditional High Street has suffered drastically since the onset of the recession in 2008, and this has been coupled locally with the development of the edge-of-town Withybush Retail Park which has had a dramatic and - in my opinion - devastating effect on the town centre.

“I would once again like to thank and pay tribute to my staff who have taken this news so bravely and who have continued to exhibit great loyalty.

"When a timescale has been established for a final closure, it is thought that it will be preceded by a huge Closing Down sale."

The iconic Haverfordwest store was founded in 1910 by Mr Ocky White.

The Directors are Jeremy White and Mark White, grandsons of the founder, Jeremy’s wife Gill, and their son Guy.

The premises occupied by the store are currently on the market but at present there are no definite plans for its future.

Thirty nine members of the Ocky White staff, plus 3 Directors and 5 members of Concession staff will lose their jobs.

Once all financial and property matters have been settled, the company will be formally wound-up.

 

Ocky White Travel to remain open, holidays already booked are safe

 

Ocky White Travel - an integral and successful part of the business - will continue to operate.

Mark White, who has over 28 years experience in the travel trade, will be continuing the travel business.

All of the existing members of staff - Anna, Chris, Claire, Eleri and Susan - will be staying with Mark in the new venture.

Mr White commented: “I would like to reassure our many existing clients that it is very much business as usual for Ocky White Travel.

“All current bookings in place will be transferred to the new Ocky White Travel, which will, of course, be fully ABTA-bonded for complete consumer financial protection.

“We are all excited about the move and the opportunities it will bring to offer an even better level of service to all our clients and friends. I am delighted that there will still be an Ocky White trading in Bridge Street, Haverfordwest.”

Any queries or concerns regarding the move will be answered by Mark or any of the team on 01437 763046.