Sam’s Your Man shuts down

Sam’s Your Man shuts down

S&R Electrics, known for their ‘Sam’s Your Man for a Bargain’ slogan, has announced it is to close with the loss of 20 jobs.

The East Belfast family-run firm is a former UK number one Independent Electrical Retailer, and announced its flagship Hollywood Road store would close on Wednesday evening.

A statement released by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the company’s directors said: “It is with regret, that 20 staff in its retail outlets in Belfast and Newtownards have been made redundant.

“The shareholders are currently evaluating their options and will issue a further statement in due course.

“The company will be in contract with all customers who have paid deposits and are currently awaiting goods.”

Naomi Long
Naomi Long

The Alliance party’s East Belfast Westminster candidate Naomi Long said the closure was a “disappointing blow” for the local economy.

“It is deeply regrettable this well-known retailer has decided to shut its doors with the loss of a number of jobs,” said Mrs Long.

“I will liaise directly with my colleague, employment and learning minister Stephen Farry, immediately regarding the future for staff who were employed there.

“We need to ensure they receive all the information and support they need at this time.”

Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA) chief executive Glyn Roberts described the decision as “very sad” for East Belfast and a big loss to the entire retail sector.

“Our thoughts are also with the 20 staff who have lost their jobs,” he said.

“S&R was a hugely respected independent retailer who made a significant contribution to the local economy.

“Our message to the local community is very clear-they must get behind their local independent retailers and do more to support them.

“It is a case of use them or lose them.”