I'm closing my shop which I've run for 24 years to look after my sick wife
“I have reached the point where I can no longer give the business the time and attention it deserves. Family must come first, and I feel it is now the right time to make this difficult decision.”
The owner of one of the Fylde Coast’s longest-running mobile phone shops has announced its shock closure as he focuses on retirement and caring for his ill wife.
Ken Phillips has run Allsorts in Knott End for 24-years, but will close the shop this week to care for his wife, Karen, whose health ‘has not been good’.
Allsorts will officially close its doors on Friday, 13 November. A 20% discount on all items is in place until then as Ken tries to clear his shelves ahead of his retirement. Announcing the news in an emotional farewell, Ken explained that the decision hadn’t been easy, but that his family ‘must come first’.
He said: “After much thought, I would like to let all our customers know that I will be retiring on 13th November 2026, and the business will be closing.
“As many of you may know, Karen's health has not been good over the past few years, and I have reached the point where I can no longer give the business the time and attention it deserves. Family must come first, and I feel it is now the right time to make this difficult decision.
“For those who know me, I have had the pleasure of looking after your computers and mobile phones etc since moving into the area 24 years ago. During that time, I have met so many wonderful people and built friendships that I will always treasure. I will genuinely miss seeing many of you on a regular basis.
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“Sometimes in life, we have to make changes and do what is best for our loved ones, and this is one of those times.
“Many people have asked what will happen to the shop. While it will no longer be a computer shop, I can confirm that it will not be becoming a café, vape shop, hairdresser, or takeaway!
“As a thank you and a final farewell, from Tuesday until we close on Friday 13th, I will be offering 20% off all remaining stock, including mobile phones, accessories, and other items currently available in the shop. Once it's gone, it's gone.”