HUNDREDS of shoppers were on the hunt for a bargain as a well-known store opened for its last ever day... and sold everything it had.

The Food Company, in Marks Tey, officially closed in July but staff threw open the doors for one last time yesterday to allow shoppers to pick up any remaining stock, regardless of cost.

Customers were queueing out the door as they made their purchases while traffic came to a standstill in London Road as drivers attempted to find parking spaces.

A spokeswoman for the shop said: “The place was absolutely rammed, there were so many customers.

“We opened really just to give people the chance to grab some bargains and I think a lot of people got just that.

“I couldn’t see for people queuing. Thank you to everyone.”

Furniture was among the items being sold and everything went in a matter of hours.

It is understood the final product was sold shortly after noon yesterday.

Shoppers bragged about their bargains on social media.

David Harris said: “Got what we needed and got a decent price. Result.”

Austin Davies added: “Long wait but it was worth it. Glad I got here early.”

The Food Company, which opened in 2000, announced it was to close in June due to “changes in the market”.

However, sources said the country’s largest Sainsbury’s, less than two miles away, at Tollgate, had a devastating effect on the shop’s trade.

The business was set up at a time when there was widespread concern over a dwindling number of independent butchers and greengrocers.

Announcing the closure, a message sent to customers said: “It is with much sadness and regret that the Food Company has decided to call time on the premium food and gifts store and restaurant in Marks Tey.

“After nearly 17 years of trading, the business will be closing its doors at the end of trading on July 14.

“We would like to thank everyone who has shopped and dined at the Food Company over the years, your loyal support has been very much appreciated.”

“Sadly, the food retail market has changed significantly over the past two decades and the business can no longer compete with the challenges posed by other retailers in the area.

“We’ve made some great memories and some very good friends and are very sad to be closing.”

The shop had received plaudits for its quality and diversity including winning the Essex Life Fine Food and Drink award for Retailer of the Year in 2011 and also The Great Taste Shop of the Year in 2013.