Well-known Blackpool reptile shop closes after 10 years ahead of new Preston launch - here's why

A Blackpool pet shop, known for its impressive range of reptiles and knowledgeable staff, has closed after ten years in business.

Grinning Gecko first opened on Highfield Road in 2016, with Mal Moutrey, Diane Jennings and her son Alex teaming up to launch the ethical reptiles business.

Now in the hands of Luke Jarvis, the specialist store continues to pride itself on providing ‘outstanding care, advice and friendship’ for those who care for the likes of geckos, snakes and other reptiles.

But, the Blackpool venue has closed its doors today (Wednesday, February 25), as it prepares for a big move to new premises elsewhere in Lancashire.

Announcing the closure on social media, the team said: “Grinning Gecko will be closing our doors Wednesday, February 25.

“We thank you all for your continued support over the last 10 years, and look forward to welcoming you all to our new, bigger store Preston Exotic Pets...

“We will see you all on the other side.”

The move comes as Grinning Gecko reaches the end of its ten-year lease on Highfield Road. Luke and colleague Emilia Ray said the business has ‘outgrown’ its current space and, after struggling to find the right spot in Blackpool, they made the ‘hard decision’ to move to Preston.

The new shop will be located on Fylde Road and has been rebranded as Preston Exotic Pets, to represent new lines and animals that will be available.

Preston Exotic Pets will offer ‘a carefully selected range of exotic pets alongside everything needed to care for them properly’, with new site currently scheduled to open on Monday, March 2.