Independent homeware and interiors brand Hilary & Alice has announced plans to close its store.
Situated on Mere Street in Diss, the store will close after 10 years of trading following a number of challenges.
The business said it will remain online, shifting its offer to furniture painting, design, upholstery and a new wallpaper service.
A statement said: “After nearly 10 incredible years trading in Diss, we’ve got some big news to share. As of later this summer, our beloved physical shop will be closing its doors. But don’t panic, Hilly Ally fans—this isn’t the end, it’s just the next step in our evolution!
“So, what’s changing? The biggest change is that we’re saying goodbye to our physical shop space, meaning our wonderful collection of giftware will no longer be available in-store. However, all of our core services will continue—if anything, they’re about to get even bigger and better!
“We’re refocusing on what we love most: transforming homes through furniture painting, upholstery, interior design, home staging, and decorating. And, as a new offering, we’re thrilled to introduce interior decorating and wallpapering services – all delivered with the same impeccable standards you’ve come to expect from us. And while online giftware sales might be on the horizon, we’ll keep you posted!
“Running a shop is tough at the best of times, but the past few years have thrown challenge after challenge at small businesses like ours. We’ve proudly weathered nearly a decade of trading through a global health crisis, a cost-of-living crisis, and the slow decline of the Diss high street. Sadly, as more stores have closed, footfall has dropped, and rising costs have made it harder than ever to sustain a physical retail space.
“But the biggest challenge for us was losing our wonderful co-founder, Amanda Kane, in 2023. Hilary & Alice was always a two-woman dream, built on creativity, collaboration, and a shared love for bringing beautiful spaces to life. Moving forward, it’s time to shape H&A into something new—something that allows us to do what we love best, in a way that truly works for us and our customers.
“So, instead of dwelling on what’s ending, we’re embracing what’s ahead. This shift gives us the freedom to focus on what we’re truly passionate about – helping you create homes filled with warmth, style, and personality.
“We couldn’t have done any of this without the amazing people who have helped keep the H&A wheels turning. From the shop floor to behind the scenes, our team has been the heart and soul of the business. Their dedication, creativity, and unwavering enthusiasm have made H&A what it is today, and we are beyond grateful for everything they’ve contributed. A massive thank you to each and every one of you; you are truly part of the Hilly Ally family!
“H&A is evolving, but we’re not going anywhere. We’ll still be working directly with you on transforming spaces, offering in-home consultations for furniture painting, upholstery, and full interior design services. And now, with our expanded decorating services, we can bring that signature H&A magic to your walls too!
“A huge thank you to every single customer who has supported us – before, during, and after this exciting next step. We can’t wait to see where this new chapter takes us, and we hope you’ll come along for the ride!”
