Historic Music Store, ‘Cornerstone’ of Regional Heritage, Closes

A retail establishment, characterized as the “cornerstone” of a region’s musical heritage for over a century, has “closed permanently”. The management of JG Windows music store, situated in Newcastle’s Central Arcade, stated its inability to compete effectively with online retailers. They expressed that the decision was reached with “great sadness” and extended gratitude to the store’s loyal clientele, noting its operation since 1908. Nevertheless, the designated liquidators indicated that there “absolutely” remained a possibility for a buyer to intervene and “keep the Windows name, brand and 100-year heritage.” A sign displayed on the shop’s facade conveyed: “We would like to thank everyone for their support, custom and friendship over the years.” It continued: “After having served our loyal customers across the North East and beyond with all things musical since 1908, and being a cornerstone of the region’s musical heritage, our small business can no longer compete with large online retailers.” The notice concluded: “It is with great sadness that we announce that JG Windows has closed permanently.” The establishment held a prominent position within the city’s central arcade. Neil Tennant, singer for Pet Shop Boys, expressed on Facebook his “very sad” reaction to the news of the shop’s closure. He recounted: “As a teenager I used to visit after school and ask to listen to David Bowie in one of their stereo listening booths and then browse through the records and sheet music and wish I could afford a posh guitar.” He added: “It will be much missed.” Other notable musical figures from Tyneside, such as Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, have previously voiced their appreciation for the store. Knopfler mentioned spending extensive periods observing the displays, envisioning the day he would possess his own guitar. Alex Cole, the store’s general manager, conveyed his profound sorrow regarding the closure. He stated: “Generations of musicians and music lovers, including my family and myself, bought their first instrument, listened to their first LP, or learned their first song within the iconic arcade store.” Cole concluded: “The city will be a quieter place without it.” Although offered for sale in 2023, no purchaser was secured. The company designated Andrew Little and Gillian Sayburn from Begbies Traynor to serve as joint liquidators. It was reported that all 17 of the firm’s employees were made redundant. Mr. Little commented: “Its closure is incredibly sad and bears no reflection on the firm’s directors who have ceaselessly gone above and beyond to try and drive the business forward.” He added: “Trading has been so difficult, they just couldn’t see a way to carry on.” The company is scheduled to enter liquidation on 12 December. Mr. Little affirmed that there remained a window for a prospective buyer to emerge and an opportunity for restructuring. Newcastle City Council expressed its “very sad” sentiment regarding the closure, acknowledging the shop’s significant presence in the city.