'We have been truly honoured to serve this town': Family-owned Banbury business closes after 143 years
A family-owned business that has served Banbury for 143 years has announced its closure.
Founded in 1883, Blinkhorns on South Bar Street was one of Banbury’s longest-running businesses.
The business originally opened as a photography shop at a time when cameras were becoming more affordable for the general public.
After some time, the Blinkhorn family switched from selling cameras to televisions and audio equipment.
For many years, Blinkhorns was known for its large range of audiovisual home entertainment equipment goods and knowledgeable customer service.
The most recent owner of Blinkhorns, Tom Blinkhorn, announced the shop's closure last week (February 11).
He said: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Blinkhorns. A business that spanned 143 years and has been my family’s life for four generations.
“We have been truly honoured to serve this town and the wider community for so long — originally as photographers, and later as audio-visual specialists.
“The heartfelt messages that we have received from so many people mean more to me than words can express. I am deeply touched and sincerely grateful to you all for your valued custom over the years. It has been an absolute joy.”
Tom has thanked all staff members who have worked for Blinkhorns over its many years and says that he will continue to offer his expertise for any audiovisual, WiFi or CCTV issues people have.
He said: “I would like to offer my personal thanks to all our employees, past and present, who have contributed so much to our story and worked tirelessly to serve you.
“I am immensely proud of them and thankful for their loyalty and hard work throughout the years.”
Ian Gentles, who runs the Banburyshire Info Facebook, said Blinkhorns was a ‘cornerstone of our town centre’.
He said: “It was a testament to a bygone era of care—a place built on the quiet strength of personal service, the wisdom of expert advice, and a bond of trust that spanned generations.
“We wish to extend our deepest, most sincere gratitude to the staff and owners for their incredible service and unwavering dedication to this community. You didn’t just serve us; you were part of the family of this town.”
For any enquiries for Blinkhorns, visit: https://www.blinkhornsav.com/