Department store AS Cooper & Sons is closing its women’s plus size section due to changes in the North American market.

The department was on the second floor of the main store on Front Street, that space will now used for its juniors and teens clothing selection — which is relocating from the ASC Express boutique in Washington Mall.

“It pains me to leave our faithful plus size customers in the lurch, but the current economic climate requires us to make this difficult business decision,” said Somers Cooper, managing director.

“We had a successful plus size woman’s business for many years but have struggled lately as the current industry has undergone significant changes.

“This category has slowly suffered in North America for a number of years, exacerbated by the major department stores shifting their focus away from traditional named brands and creating their own private label brands, leaving less choice in the wholesale market for small retailers like us to purchase.

“Our ladies sportswear buyers will be including the larger sizes of the Missy fashion lines whenever possible. We are celebrating our 120th anniversary this year and we want to be around for at least 120 more.”

The ASC Express boutique will relocate on Sunday. The store is running a relocation sale this week with savings of up to 40 per cent.

While the junior and teens section will be in its new location from next week, the company said cosmetic changes and upgrades to the department will be ongoing until the end of March.

In a statement, the company said: “The new department will be situated next to the children’s fashion area and will allow for a smoother flow of foot traffic in an environment that is attractive and comfortable to shop in.”

It also said the move would allow the store to continue to feature the best brands from the ASC Express and allow the expansion of its contemporary fashion offerings.

“The relocated department is expected to continue to be Bermuda’s destination for teens, the young at heart and anyone with an eye for fast fashion.”

Mr Cooper said: “Essentially, AS Cooper main store will become a one-stop-shop for most local ladies shopping needs.

The department store sells fragrances, jewellery and gifts on the ground floor, with children’s, juniors and ladies sportswear on the second floor, together with the Somers’ Cafe.

On the third floor, which is also accessed from street level on Reid Street, are ladies designer brands, dresses, accessories and the La Serena Spa.