December 2nd 2024.
JG Windows, a beloved music store in Newcastle, has recently announced its permanent closure. The store, located in the city's Central Arcade, has been a staple in the music community since its opening in 1908, but unfortunately, it is no longer able to compete with large online retailers. The news has left many, including famous musicians, feeling a sense of loss and nostalgia.
The store's window now displays a sign that reads, "After over a century of serving our loyal customers across the North East and beyond with all things musical, and being a cornerstone of the region's musical heritage, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors. We are grateful for the support, custom, and friendship of all those who have been a part of our journey."
Neil Tennant, lead singer of the iconic band Pet Shop Boys, shared his sadness at the store's closure, stating, "As a teenager, I used to visit JG Windows after school and listen to David Bowie in their stereo listening booths. I would then browse through the records and sheet music, dreaming of one day being able to afford a posh guitar. It will be greatly missed."
Mark Knopfler, lead guitarist of the band Dire Straits, also reminisced about his time spent in the store. He once told the BBC that he would spend hours gazing at the displays, dreaming of the day he could own a guitar. JG Windows was not only a place for purchasing instruments, sheet music, and vinyl records, but also a hub for inspiration and musical education.
The store's closure has also resulted in the loss of 17 jobs, as the company has gone into liquidation. The general manager, Alex Cole, expressed his sorrow over the closure, stating, "For over 115 years, generations of musicians and music lovers, including my family and myself, have bought their first instrument, listened to their first LP, or learned their first song within the iconic Central Arcade store."
Despite the sad news, there is still hope for the store's future. JG Windows was put up for sale last year, and liquidators have stated that there is still time for someone to purchase the company. In fact, a GoFundMe has been launched by music lovers in an effort to save the struggling store. The community's support and love for JG Windows are evident, with the fundraiser already raising £570.
The closure of JG Windows is not only a loss for the Newcastle music scene, but for the entire UK. The store has been a respected and renowned music store, with an unparalleled range of instruments and musical expertise. Its closing is a reflection of the challenges faced by small businesses in the current climate.
We can only hope that someone will come forward and save JG Windows, keeping its legacy alive for future generations of musicians and music lovers. Until then, the memories and impact of this beloved store will continue to live on.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]