Shopping Centres don't tend to sap away from B&O's business - bear in mind that B&O dealers are usually slightly off the beaten track because they know that at least a large proportion of their business is going to come from people who are specifically looking for a B&O system, or have a B&O system in mind.

The major part of the problem is the general very sharp downturn of trade in many luxury goods.

People in general are more worried about how they are going to pay the shopping and fuel bills and will put off buying lifes luxuries.

Sadly I can see this being the first of a few closures.

I am hoping that I won't provoke another repeat  of the B&O strategy thread when I say that the luxury goods market is going to be a challenging one for the next couple of years or so.

Simon

joeyboygolf:

The major part of the problem is the general very sharp downturn of trade in many luxury goods.

Absolutely incorrect. In the Sunday Times there was a big report on this on how 'ultra luxury' brands are bucking the downturn, with wealthy clients spending in a way that laughs at the so-called downturn. Sales are up on many ultra luxury products during the first half of 2008.

It depends how you see B&O. Unfortunately they are becoming part of this 'ultra luxury' market and some stores are going to buck the trend whereas others, who can't target people who buy from products in this brand, will struggle.

Assuming what you say is correct Moxxey, it's easy to see why of the two B&O stores within 4 miles of each other in Leeds, it's the one out of the city centre in the suburbs that is closing. Lots of people are still spending money in Leeds on luxury items, and I guess the store nearest to this activity is going to feel the benefit.