Hewson Books Closure Confirmed as Permanent
Owner blames low footfall in Brentford Project
A sign appeared in the bookshop's window two weeks ago announcing that they were taking a break
February 10, 2025
Adam Hewson, the owner of Hewson Books in the Brentford Project , has confirmed that the shop will not be reopening.
He said, “Unfortunately we have had to take the difficult decision to close the shop. The 'lively retail scene' the Brentford Project promised did not happen quickly enough. It will probably be thriving in a few years' time, but we can't wait that long.”
The move comes just over seven months after author Robert Rankin cut the ribbon on the new store which was meant to be a flagship for independent retailers in the development.
The business actively participated in community activities and stocked a wide range of titles about local matters as well as arranging book walks around the area.
A sign appeared in the shop window two weeks ago saying that the closure was temporary and that it would be reopening in the spring. Neighbouring businesses told us that they expected the pause was due to the anticipation of improved footfall in the area when the Everyman Cinema launches.
Adam says that they are ‘heart-broken’ to leave but pointed out that the two other stores in the chain are trading well and there was a specific issue with the Brentford area. He added that there was no footfall in ‘the Lanes’.
He dismissed suggestions that competition from online retailers like Amazon was making the retail book trade unviable. Disappointed customers can still purchase from Hewson Books and local residents get a discount. Visit www.hewsonbooks.co.uk and, if you have a TW8 or adjacent postcode use the code BRENTFORD to get 10% off. Eligible postcodes are TW8, TW7, TW3, TW4, TW5. W3, W4, W5, W7, W13. This offer will be available for at least a year.
Other retailers have complained about number of visitors to the development which they partly blame on the continuing number of vacant units. The developer Ballymore has pointed out that most of the vacant shops are leased out by Hounslow Council and it has no control over how quickly they are occupied.
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