Web sales sound the end for shop

May 1 2008 by Kerry-Lynne Doyle, Glamorgan Gazette

IT survived a devastating fire and a burglary that wiped out its stock.

But now Bridgend’s only specialist record store is to close after losing trade to the internet.

The Jungle, in Nolton Street, Bridgend, will close its doors on June 14 after 13 years.

The independent music shop, which sells CDs and concert tickets, is closing down after owner Lee David decided not to renew the lease.

Mr David, 35, said downloads, online CD sales and the opening of ASDA have had an impact on trade.

He said: “The whole record industry has gone downhill over the last few years.

“Bridgend town centre has gone quieter and it hasn’t helped with ASDA opening, which offers chart stuff cheaper.

“At the end of the day the majority of the music-buying public are downloading it all.

“They are getting access to music for free. We can’t compete.”

The decision follows the closure of McDonald’s and the Halifax just doors away from the shop, which has led to a drop in trade.

Mr David also believes lengthy town centre regeneration works has caused a drop in footfall.

“It’s the way the whole industry and the town centre has gone,” he said.

“The council has taken so long to do the regeneration – they seem to be taking two years to have gone through my street, and I had bollards outside my shop for a month or two.

“People complain they can’t park anywhere, and McDonald’s and Halifax have moved.

“People aren’t crossing the road – I think bit by bit it has added up.”

Since opening in 1995, The Jungle has survived a devastating fire and a burglary.

In April 2000, the shop was gutted by flames and in October 2006 its entire stock was taken in a break-in.

“Obviously I feel a bit sad and disappointed,” said Mr David. I have lots of happy memories and lots of sad ones as well. I would like to thank all our loyal customers.”

Lee Le Breuilly, of Bridgend Chamber of Trade, said he will be sad to see the Jungle close its doors, adding: “The loss of McDonald’s and the Halifax, and now the Jungle, will affect that side of the street.”

A council spokeswoman said: “The regeneration of Nolton Street works are proceeding on programme with the completion date due in the near future.

“With regard to Jungle Records in Nolton Street closing down, this is extremely regrettable.

“However, the recent shift in the media market due to advances in technology allow consumers to purchase and download media products from the internet, and this will inevitably have a negative effect on retail owners in this market.”