I was sad to see the Grape and Grain in Berkhampstead Road, Chesham has closed. I guess it must have been difficult to compete with the supermarkets. I use to like going in there for some real ale and a different bottle of wine from those on offer in Sainsbury's. Anyone know anymore details?

By JulieGK at 11:12 on 08/08/11

Don't know any details either. What chance have small businesses got these days though, with a Tesco springing up on every street corner!?

Although our friends live in Whitstable and they still have loads of lovely independent shops on their high street - including an amazing wine shop and place to buy cheeses. Don't understand how the same has happened to those shops?? Am guessing it must have something to do with the extortionate cost of shop leases in our area???

By Magpi23 at 21:11 on 13/08/11
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To be fair the Grape and Grain worked well when it occupied a niche market very like those in Whitstable. I recall the annual wine tasting events with much pleasure. But once it became just another off licence it was in a different market

By MichaelRowan at 11:43 on 16/08/11
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