Jobs at risk as Keighley branch of Thornton's to close

Chocolatier Thornton's has announced plans to close all of its 61 shops, putting around 600 jobs at risk, including some in Keighley.

The chain has a branch in the town's Airedale Shopping Centre, just opposite Poundland and Claire's Accessories.

Skipton did used to have a Thornton's in the former Craven Herald shop, but it closed several years ago and a men's outfitters is now in the property.

Thornton's says it will focus on web sales and selling its chocolates via other shops, including supermarkets.

In a statement, the company said: "Unfortunately like many other retailers, the obstacles we have faced and will continue to face on the high street are too severe.

"Despite our best efforts we have taken the difficult decision to go into full consultation to start the permanent closure of our retail store estate.

"We understand that this will be an uncertain and concerning time for our colleagues and we will actively support them during this period."

The brand started out as a shop in Sheffield in 1911, owned by Joseph Thorton who sold homemade sweets. The company was taken over by Ferrero in a £112m deal in 2015.

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