Saint John’s Hayward and Warwick Closing after Over 161 Years
Updated: 11:45 a.m.
One of Saint John’s oldest businesses is closing after over 161 years.
Hayward and Warwick, a shop specializing in china and gifts, announced on its Facebook page on Monday that it will be shutting down.
“Due to sudden, serious illness, Hayward and Warwick will be closing,” read the post by owners Suzan and Royden McKillop. “Effective immediately, all in stock merchandise will be 50% off until it is gone. There will be no returns or exchanges. All sales are final. Thank you for being a very important part of our lives…”
Huddle reached out to the Mckillops, but did not hear back by the time of publication. This story will be updated to reflect any new information we receive.
Nancy Tissington, executive director of Uptown Saint John, says she’s saddened by the store’s closure.
“It was very sad to hear the family has received bad news that has forced the closure,” Tissington said, in an email. “The Hayward and Warwick name is etched into every Saint Johner’s mind. Known for its fine upscale offerings in crystal, china, as well as unique gifts and impeccable service, they will be missed.”
Hayward and Warwick’s closure will also mean another piece of vacant real estate in Saint John’s uptown core, but Tissington said she is confident the storefront will find a new tenant.
“The area of Canterbury, Germain and Princess Streets has been growing due in part to more densification in our urban core,” she said. “This space offers large windows and on-street access; therefore, we are confident the space won’t stay vacant for long. In the meantime, we wish the family all the best as they go through this transition.”
Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce CEO David Duplisea said he is also sad to see such a longstanding shop close its doors.
“We are saddened to learn of the closing of Hayward and Warwick due to a serious illness,” Duplisea said, in a statement. “As a prominent part of Saint John’s history for so many years, their presence and their tradition of quality will be greatly missed. We wish Royden and Suzan the best of luck and thank them for their contributions to our community.”