AS another high street trader is about to close its doors in Ross-on-Wye, it’s not all bad news as some 15 independent entrepreneurs have opened up in the town in the past year.

The parent company behind The Original Factory Shop is being put into administration with owner Modella Capital announcing the 'very sad' news on Monday evening, (January 5) admitting it had been 'a very tough decision'.

A spokesman for the company said: “Very sadly, we have had to initiate insolvency proceedings for The Original Factory Shop and Claire's Accessories UK & Ireland.

“This has been a very tough decision. We have worked intensively in an effort to save both businesses, having made last-ditch attempts to rescue them, but neither has a realistic possibility of trading profitably again.

“In these circumstances, administration is the only option. In both cases, the legacy effects of trading prior to our ownership left them highly vulnerable.”

And while the climate on the high street, when it comes to national chains, remains extremely challenging, Ross is turning its back on the trend.

Local County Councillor Ed O’Driscoll said: “There’s a well-worn narrative that market towns are inevitably in decline, but I believe our figures suggest we’re bucking the trend.

“Over the past year we’ve seen a remarkable number of new independent businesses choosing to open in our town centre, alongside existing traders investing and expanding. “That points to confidence in our town, its customers, and our future.

Ross feels lively, distinctive and resilient, and that’s down to the people who are prepared to take a risk supported by a community that values our high street. Let’s all get behind them in 2026.”

Those business that have opened in the past year include The Baobab Tree Kitchen; Beeches Gallery; Wye do I need it?; Four Interiors; The Hair Station; Oates's; Age UK Ross-on-Wye Charity Shop; Truffles Delicatessen; Cafe Delight; Cash and Xchange;

T'T’licious Food; Woolly and Fluff; Ross Burger Co; Valhalla Ink Tattoo Studio; Vera T'ucci and Maggie's Place.