The Frame Factory Limited is facing closure following claims that it can no longer afford the rent.
The company, based on Cross Street in St Mary’s, confirmed the closure in a statement on its website:
“We regret to announce that the Frame Factory Islington will cease to trade in April this year. Over the next few months, we will continue to trade on a limited basis while we wind down the business.
“Some services – larger and more involved works – will no longer be available, as we focus on smaller frames and a limited workload to satisfy as many customers as possible.
“The staff at the Frame Factory would like to thank all our customers for their loyalty, and for bringing us such wonderful art to frame, over the last 30 years.”
Islington’s Frame Factory closes in April/May after 30 years – unless lower rent premises can be found. pic.twitter.com/4gH3aHOOZW — Highbury Fields (@FieldsHighbury) March 7, 2015
The company has been in operation since the 1980s, specialising in bespoke modern and ornate-style frames for paintings, photos and objects.
However, it is not the first time the Frame Factory has faced closure. The business was almost shut down 15 years ago, but managed to broker a last minute long-term rent deal following a campaign.
This deal has now come to an end. Due to escalating rent prices, the business can no longer afford to remain in the current premises.
“An absolute disaster for people in Islington.”
Caroline Russell, councillor for Highbury East, said:
“This is an absolute disaster for people in Islington. Every closure of a business due to escalating rents means fewer employment opportunities in the borough. We desperately need more opportunities now more than ever.
“The problem is a lot of properties are actually taking commercial places, which used to be places where people were employed. With the high rents, we are now losing more places for employment.”
Online users have reacted to the news of the popular business, describing the closure as a great shame.
@FieldsHighbury such a shame! Great framers with really knowledgeable staff. Hope they find somewhere soon. — TottenhamArtClasses (@tottenhamarts) March 7, 2015
Very sad. The Frame Factory, N1. is closing, says @VicSowerby. A real Islington institution with great staff — Harry Wallop (@hwallop) February 26, 2015
@FieldsHighbury i suppose the council will allow more very expensive flats to be built there. Such a shame pricing a good company out — Vicki (@afcvicki) March 7, 2015
The Frame Factory declined to comment until April.
