A popular upmarket supermarket is set to close its doors in the cathedral city of after 16 years of trading. Booths, often described as the "," will shut its branch on Marshall Way, after reportedly struggling to maintain profitability in the area.

The closure is expected to pave the way for to take over the lease, according to reports. The news has sparked disappointment among local residents and business owners, many of whom valued for its community feel and distinctive product range.

Although Booths operates 27 stores across the North of England, including Lancashire and Cumbria, its presence in Yorkshire has always been limited.

The Ripon store was one of just three in the county, alongside outlets in Ilkley and Settle, which are both expected to remain open.

Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith acknowledged Booths' contribution to the local economy and community over the years.

He said that while the closure was disappointing, Tesco's interest in the site was a positive sign for the city's future, and pledged to support a smooth transition.

Local business owners also weighed in on the news. Simon Edwards, who runs The Little Ripon Bookshop, told that his shop and Booths had opened around the same time in 2009 and shared a similar customer base.

While he admitted that losing Booths was unfortunate, he was reassured by the likelihood of Tesco moving in, especially amid concerns about new out-of-town retail developments drawing business away from the city centre.

Despite the closure, Ripon remains home to several other supermarket options, including Sainsbury's, Aldi, Morrisons, and a recently expanded M&S food hall. However, for many residents, Booths' departure marks the end of a chapter in the city's retail landscape.