The department store held a weekend of special events and store discounts to mark the “huge milestone”

Customers and staff celebrate 120 years of Pearsons with Enfield mayor Suna Hurman (centre)

Department store Pearsons is marking 120 years of trade at the heart of Enfield Town.

A weekend of birthday celebrations kicked off on Friday (27^th) with the mayor of Enfield giving a speech and free fizz and cupcakes being offered to customers. There was also live music, a fashion show by footballers from Enfield Town FC, and face-painting for the kids.

Launched by brothers Stanley and Arthur Pearson in 1903, Pearsons has been an ever-present of the Enfield shopping scene and continues to thrive thanks to its loyal customer base.

Suna Hurman, Enfield mayor, said she was “honoured” to be at the Church Street store for such a special occasion and added: “This site is a landmark for the borough of Enfield.

“It opened with only seven staff, but look at it now. Customers can find everything you would expect from a department store – beauty products, clothes, furniture, and of course the restaurant – and I know many local people have worked or known someone who has worked here.

Pearsons has been ever-present in Church Street since 1903

“I am truly proud to stand here today 20 years after Queen Elizabeth II was here for the 100^th anniversary.”

The original Pearsons building suffered damage during the Second World War but a large extension and renovation in 1962 enabled the introduction of many of the modern store amenities still enjoyed today, including a lift and escalators. The restaurant soon became a popular venue in Enfield for evening functions.

Morleys Stores Group acquired Pearsons in 2010, but the original name and character of the shop was retained. General manager Natasha Young said it was “a huge milestone” to reach 120 years.

On Friday the Dispatch also spoke to customers about what they valued about Pearsons. Denise said they “always have good deals”, Gloria said she liked to meet friends in the cafe, and Heather said it was “a department store that has everything under one roof”.

From left, Pearsons customers Heather, Denise and Gloria — From left; Pearsons customers Heather, Denise and Gloria

Staff member Christine Redford, who has worked at Pearsons for 28 years, also told the Dispatch: “I love it – I have been here since I left school so it is like a family to me.

“I can’t imagine being anywhere else. We are the only department store in town and I think we have something for everyone. There is a real sense of community as well – some people come in just for a conversation.”

The weekend of celebrations at Pearsons included a range of product discounts for shoppers. Mark Rudling, town centre manager for Enfield Town Business Association, said: “It is amazing in this day and modern age of online shopping and retail parks that a business like Pearsons has not only lasted 120 years but is still going from strength to strength.

“It shows people put a value on service and being able to touch and feel a product before they buy it.”

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