News of the closure of two more small shops broke on the same day that B&Q revealed its latest superstore, in all its cavernous glory. This has to be more than coincidence.

In the case of the demise of Fads, on George Hudson Street, York, there is a direct connection. The DIY retailer says it has been put out of business by out-of-town competition, like that from B&Q's established branches.

Similarly, the owner of Russells Cycles blames the closure on mega-retailers encroaching on his territory. When the likes of Tesco and Asda are selling bikes at discounts that only bulk-buying can secure, what chance the independent cycle shop?

Russells has been a prominent part of the York streetscape for nigh-on a century. Earlier this month, an even older York business, Pickerings bookshop, announced it was moving out of Shambles.

These changes dilute the individuality of York's shopping experience, and this is a trend to be regretted. A key weapon in the city centre's battle with out-of-town competition is its eclectic mix of big name stores and specialised, independent shops.

But we should not become overly sentimental about the disappearance of these familiar names. That would be akin to a loudly mourning an acquaintance whose presence we barely acknowledged in life.

These shops have failed because so many modern consumers prefer the out-of-town experience. People want the ability to shop when it suits them, day or night. They want the convenience of parking outside the store's front door. And they want the cheaper prices that the big multiples can deliver.

That does not mean that every small retailer is doomed. The independent business can offer a quality of expertise and customer service that a giant corporation will struggle to match.

Other small cycle, hardware and book shops in York survive. They provide a specialist service to residents and visitors alike. Long may they continue to do so.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.