Country Ways, the long-established North-East retailer specialising in country and equestrian wear, is set to close its prominent Holburn Street premises in Aberdeen after 48 years of trading.
The store, a familiar fixture on the iconic street since 1978, will cease operations at the end of February, marking a significant change for both the business and local residents.
The company announced the sale of its Holburn Street shop, confirming a strategic decision to consolidate its retail focus. Operations will now centre around its Bridge Street outlet in Banchory, located approximately 19 miles from Aberdeen. The Banchory store, which opened in 2021, has already established itself as a key destination for customers in Royal Deeside.
Founded in 1978 by brothers Charles and John Michie, Country Ways initially emerged from their pharmacy business, evolving from ‘The Aberdeen Tack Room’ to its current identity on Holburn Street. The Michie family has steered the business through decades, welcoming generations of customers seeking country and equestrian apparel.
The Holburn Street building itself holds a rich history, visually distinguishing itself with its frequently repainted gable end. In the 19th century, the wall was adorned with advertisements, a detail captured in photographs by George Washington Wilson, a renowned commercial photographer from Aberdeen who was also appointed photographer to Queen Victoria in Scotland in 1860. From the 1970s, after Country Ways began trading, a distinctive horse mural graced the facade. More recently, in 2018, the building became a canvas for Glasgow-based artists the Globel Brothers, whose colourful mural of a toy seagull proclaimed the playful local slogan, “He’s awa wi yir chips!” as part of the Nuart festival in Aberdeen.
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The news of the Holburn Street closure was shared via social media, prompting an outpouring of customer sentiment. Nicola Mahon, a former employee, reflected: “It was the best place to work, experiences I’ll always talk and smile about with the most wonderful team and amazing friendships.” Other comments echoed a sense of loss and appreciation, with users stating, “Certainly the end of an era for Aberdeen” and “Such a lovely shop and fantastic staff”.
In a statement, Country Ways expressed profound gratitude to its patrons: “After 48 years on Holburn Street, Country Ways has welcomed generations of you, our loyal customers, for your country and equestrian wear. From its inception in 1978 by Charles and John Michie, it’s been an amazing journey. We are deeply grateful for the love and support shown by you all over the years, as well as our dedicated team, you truly made it all happen. Thank you all!” Despite the Holburn Street closure, the company indicated an active exploration of options for a potential second location in the future.
