‘It can be saved’: Hundreds sign petition to stop John Lewis closure

More than a thousand people have signed a petition calling for York’s John Lewis store to be saved.

Started less than 24 hours ago, the petition has shown the depth of feeling over the chain’s decision to axe the Vangarde shop only seven years after it was opened.

Customer Andrew Simpson is behind the petition. He described it as a “distinctive shopping experience – whether it be a mug of tea or coffee in their inviting cafe, a good quality food mixer from their unbeatable baking range, or an innovative television from their tantalising technology department.

“But it’s not just the product range that has a lot to offer – it’s the incredible staff.

“The York store could not have a more friendly and attentive team if it tried and they too, deserve to retain their positions.”

One of those members of staff is Charlotte Wilkinson. She told YorkMix that the deal is not done yet.

“I realise not everyone has been to John Lewis to shop but I think we can all admit that York doesn’t need more huge stores closed and empty,” she said.

“Many stores that have closed in the last year have been firm decisions. However John Lewis is a proposed decision at the moment.

“It could be saved if the York and outer York community help.”

She said staff will be able to raise key points with the board that may have been overlooked and shadowed by Covid-19.

“This included things such as the leisure complex, investments and upcoming businesses on both Monks Cross and Vangarde.

“And the new housing proposed developments in the area which could bring more than 400 households who may shop with John Lewis.”

They also plan to bring the petition to the board should it get enough signatures.