End of an era as Pontefract fashion shop set to close after almost 50 years

After nearly half a century in the fashion retail business, Chris Pinto is preparing to retire and close her ladies’ fashion shop, Chris Atkinson, in Pontefract.

The store, located at 35 Ropergate, is currently up for sale, with the final winter collection marking the end of an era. Chris anticipates the shop will close around Christmas time.

Chris opened her first shop at 24 Ropergate in November 1978 and operated there for about ten years before relocating to the current premises in the late 1980s. Over the years, her shop has become more than just a retail space; many customers have developed friendships with Chris, often dropping in for a cup of tea and a chat.

“She described the business as "a very personal service" and said, "I have always sold a certain look. It was my personal choice of style."

Her buying journey began with visits to showrooms in Leeds, eventually expanding to London, particularly the Great Portman Street area, known for its concentration of fashion agents. Chris also attended fashion exhibitions in Harrogate to select new collections. She explained, "As I went along I got to know all my customers and they relied on me to buy things they would like."

Throughout her career, Chris has witnessed significant challenges, including the miners’ strike and various recessions. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced new dynamics to the business.

"We started with Instagram, which opened up another avenue and brought another string to the business," she said. Although not personally online, Chris posted new collections on Instagram and Facebook, maintaining a loyal customer base that continued shopping after the pandemic.

Sue Dyson, who has worked at the shop for around six years, reflected on the impact of the closure, saying, "The customers are all saying they are going to miss us and where are they going to shop?"

Chris praised her staff, particularly Sue, for their support, noting, "She has taken the pressure off me by taking over the admin work to give me more time to concentrate on the customers."

Chris’s journey began after leaving Normanton Secondary Modern School at 15. She gained early experience working in the haberdashery department at Kingswells department store in Wakefield city centre and as a window dresser at Richard Shops in Wakefield. Before launching her own business, she also worked in administration at County Hall in Wakefield.