Chichester shop to close after 32 years in the city

Royal Orchid in Southgate, known for its silver jewellery, cute China figurines in the window, and the range of beauty services it offers, has been run by Chai Techatipakorn and his wife Lindsey for the past 32 years.

In those years, Chai has become a familiar and friendly face around the city, after opening the business as ‘Tuptim’ in Sadlers Walk before the shopping arcade was sold to TK Maxx. Following the sale to TK Maxx, the shop reopened in Southgate.

Chai said: “We started out very small and we gradually built it up and built it up until we expanded into two units.”

But after 32 long years of business in Chichester city centre, Chai and Lindsey are set to take some well-earned retirement together.

“We want to spend some time on ourselves,” he said, “The first thing is probably to go somewhere in Scotland for a few days and then somewhere else. I really want to go to the highlands.”

"I’m sure I’m going to miss it. We have been doing it for such a long time and I know so many customers — we have got lovely customers here.

"I would like to thank everyone for their custom in the last 32 year and I wish everybody well.”

The shop is set to close at the end of the month but Chai said that might be extended if there is remaining stock, and customers are being encouraged to help the clearance with a 50 per cent discount.