CRUISE ships aren't the only things vacating Front Street. Two retail shops, Davisons of Bermuda and Gosling's Black Seal, both operated by Bermuda Resort Shops are going out of business and have posted closing sale signs in their front windows.

According to the Experience Bermuda website, Davison's has been in business for more than 30 years offering a selection of adult and children's clothing along with beach accessories. There are two other Davison's locations on the island in St. George's and Dockyard and according to Laura Pitt, managing director of Bermuda Resort Shops, those two stores will remain open.

Asked why the two stores were closing, Ms Pitt said: "At the moment, it is a little premature to provide any comment".

As of press time last night, members of the Corporation of Hamilton could not be reached for comment on the store closings and its affect on the City's retail offerings.