Historic Scots business to close after more than 100 years as owners shut shop
People shopping at a supermarket in the UKCredit: Alamy
AN HISTORIC Scots business is set to close after more than 100 years as owners shut up their beloved shop.
Sinforiani Brothers in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire first opened in 1920.
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Sinforiani Brothers has announced its closure after more than 100 years runningCredit: Facebook
Over the years, the ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ on West George Street has been a cafe, newsagents, tobacconist and confectioner.
Current owner Marco Sinforiani, 59, has worked for the family business since 1978.
And after 34 years in the shop, Marco has reluctantly decided to sell up allowing him to spend more time with his family.
Speaking earlier in the year to Ayrshire Live, Marco said: “I’ve decided to sell the business for family reasons. Family comes first even though I love the business and I’m not ready to leave it. I had to come to that decision.
“I can’t put my full energies into both. As much as I’m attached to it, I’ve got to do it. It has been a tough decision to take because I wasn’t quite ready for it.
“I’ve been involved with the business full time since 1991 and part time since 1978.
“The business has been in the family directly since about 1930. My grandfather and his two brothers were involved with it since 1920. It’s been a long affiliation with the town and the same premises as well.
“I don’t want to sound like a cliché but I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my customers and that is the bottom line for an independent business. They have been so supportive, especially when times are a bit harder.
“Fortunately, I still get a good, solid core of customers, faithful customers.”
The family took over the business when Alessandro, Davide and Mario Sinforiani moved to Scotland from Castelnuovo in Tuscany in 1930.
Over the years it has been a favourite for locals in the Ayrshire area.
The family said they were looking for someone who will keep the store’s character and legacy in Kilmarnock.
Marco said: “We would love to find a buyer who respects the shop’s history and will continue to make it a welcoming place for customers old and new.
“There’s nowhere else really in the town to buy these specialist items and there’s real opportunity for the right person to take this into a new chapter.
“You’ve got your solid core of customers but somebody could take it too another level, especially with the size of Kilmarnock and the surrounding area.”
Marco, family and the staff all thanked their loyal supporters and said: “A huge thank you to all our wonderful customers who have supported our family business over the years, wishing you all the best.”
Locals rushed to the comments to share their memories.
One said: “This makes me sad Marco. Many years of advice and purchases. Hope you enjoy your next chapter but killie will have a void for sure. I wasn’t really sure what wines to try at the start but loved the advice and offering throughout the years. Still a twig gal.”
A former staff member said: “Never thought I would see the day but enjoy your time with the family Marco, time to relax. Worked in the shop for 24 years and would honestly say I couldn’t have wished for a better employer so all the best for the future and look forward to a last night out with everyone. See you soon.”
And a third said: “So sad. I’m almost 70 and I can remember sitting eating chips with my late mum. Enjoy you rest.”
Sinforiani Brothers will close their doors for the last time on Saturday December 13 at 7.30pm.
