Long-running Bridgwater dealer Anderson & Wall closed its doors for the final time at the end of January. The family business, with a history spanning more than a century, made the decision to close partly due to owner Richard Humphrey’s retirement. Humphrey also says the business has become unsustainable, largely because of the ongoing rebuilding of Bridgwater town centre, known as Celebration Mile, which has caused severe traffic and access problems.
“I always knew that one day I’d have to retire and sell up, especially since becoming a sole trader and, of course, getting older,” said Humphrey. “Unfortunately, that time has now come, and I’ve decided to close the business. As well as retiring, it’s simply become impossible for us to continue, and sadly, the final nail in the coffin was the so-called Celebration Mile. For the last two years, we’ve struggled, as customers have found it hard, or sometimes impossible, to reach us due to the roadworks. They’ve had to drive around the perimeter of Bridgwater just to get to Church Street, where we’re located.”
The shop has been at the heart of Humphrey’s family for generations. Richard began working there straight out of school, joining his parents and later, his brother John. After their father, Dennis, passed away in 1995, Richard, John, and their mother kept the business running. In the 1970s, the firm switched focus to cars, selling Yugo, Reliant and Hyundai, before returning to bikes in 1997. Since then, it’s held franchises for Sym, Kymco, Rieju, Keeway and Royal Alloy, among others.
“John and I spent years selling mainly scooters, lightweight motorcycles, helmets, and clothing,” said Humphrey’s. “We helped young locals gain independence for getting to work and college, and adults find affordable, convenient transport. When John died unexpectedly in 2012, the future of Anderson & Wall was left in my hands, not what I was expecting! All that remains for me to say is a massive thank you to the many, many customers who have supported us over the years. We shall miss you and your trikes, motorcycles and scooters.”