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The Colchester Gazette reports that Kent Blaxill, a builders merchant in Layer Road, which began trading in 1838 will be closing down on its huge site on Layer Road in July, and that Closing Down signs have been seen at the branch.
Kent Blaxill was acquired in October 2022 by Paintwell, the decorators merchant that went into administration earlier this year, with most of ita branches acquired by Brewers, the Sussex-based family-owned decorators merchant. However, the two builders merchant branches, Colchester and Bury St Edmunds, had by then been taken over by Chandler Building Supplies, part of Independent Builders Merchant Group.
A February statement emphasised that the Kent Blaxill branch would not be closing in the aftermath of Paintwell’s adminstration, however, IBMG is currently undergoing a restructuring of ita finances, which will mean a number of branches will close.
A group statement reads: “We are writing to let you know that Kent Blaxill Builders Merchants will be permanently closing as of Saturday 12th July 2025. Having proudly served the Colchester community since 1838, we’ve had the privilege of being part of your lives for nearly two centuries – through generations of families, changing times, and countless shared moments. Our roots in this community run deep, and we are incredibly grateful for the trust, loyalty, and support you’ve shown us throughout the years.
“This decision was not made lightly. While the time has come for us to close our doors, our pride in what we’ve built – together with you – will endure. The relationships we’ve formed and the memories we’ve created will remain an important part of our story.”
