Bristol newsagents finds new owner after 45 years under same ownership

This popular traditional newsagent occupies a prominent position on Shirehampton High Street, with convenient customer parking and enjoys a strong local reputation for high quality customer service.

Previous owner Jeffrey Hawkins took over the business in 1978 from his parents Ernie and Gwen Hawkins, who started the business in 1973, and decided to sell the store in order to enjoy a well-deserved retirement. Mr Hawkins comments, “After 45 years as a newsagent I am pleased to have sold the shop in Shirehampton with the help of David from Christie & Co, and I can now look forward to my retirement.”

After an extensive marketing campaign, with a high level of interest and number of bids received, the business was successfully purchased by Bristol-based businessman and entrepreneur, Mosin Sajid. Mr Sajid plans to close the business temporarily in order to carry out a full shop re-fit.

David Morris, Associate Director at Christie & Co who handled the sale adds, “I am delighted to have helped Jeffrey sell his traditional newsagents after it had been under his family’s ownership for over 45 years. I hope Jeffrey can now enjoy his retirement and I am sure that Mosin will put his own stamp on the store, developing the business further. The market for going concern, convenience retail businesses in the South West remains strong particularly where the operator owns the freehold interest in the property.” 

Mr Hawkins was assisted in the transaction by Rhodri O’Reilly and Paul Jones of Insight Law’s Bristol office, who supported on the legal due diligence.