Benbows, a greengrocer on Market Place, has shut after more than 30 years of trading in the town.
The shop was a family-run business that was widely known for its selection of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Active Fakenham, a group of volunteers working to promote the town, expressed “real sadness and disappointment” upon hearing of the closure.
The shop offered a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables (Image: Active Fakenham)
Richard Crook, from the group, said: “Competition from supermarkets, changing shopping habits, and perhaps changing eating habits have all played a part in the closure of Benbows, along with other small independent shops in the town.
“The fact that it accepted cash only may not have helped.
“For me personally, it means the loss of familiar, friendly faces I met several times a week—often at least once while being gently dragged in by the dog when I was trying to walk past.
“This closure made me reflect on what Benbows meant not only to me, but to Active Fakenham and to Fakenham as a town. Without the ability to pop in for mushrooms or fresh fruit, I will undoubtedly walk into town less often”.
Former Fakenham Town Mayor Janet Holdom and Nigel Benbow inside the store (Image: Newsquest)
Mr Crook added that the closure of Benbows was “symbolic” of how towns were changing and that there will “clearly be a loss to the town centre as a whole”.
He has now called on people in the town to support traders and businesses where they can.
Mr Crook said: “While new businesses are arriving, some valued services are disappearing. If town centres are to survive and thrive, they must adapt.
“If we value independent shops, friendly faces, and a vibrant town centre, now is the time to show it.
“Wherever possible, please support local traders, use town-centre businesses, and spread the word about what Fakenham has to offer”.