ONE of the few outlets in Bermuda where magazine addicts could get their fix of hobby and British publications will be closing its doors tomorrow for the very last time.Washington Mall Magazines owner Nathaniel Butterfield expressed disappointment at having to close the store and said: "Just like a plane crash, it's never just one reason."

While the escalating rents in Hamilton did play a small part in the decision, Mr. Butterfield said Customs tariff changes a few years ago ultimately led to an increase in freight costs, while changes to shipping laws in the United States following 9/11 also did not help matters.

"It all just added up," he said, adding that the Internet had also played a big part in the drop in sales.

Mr. Butterfield explained that for any avid hobbyist, websites offered updated articles, information and solutions to various hobby-related issues — many at no cost.

The same can be said about numerous news and financial-related magazines which charge very little for online subscriptions.

While nothing definite has been decided, Mr. Butterfield said he was considering putting a few magazines on the shelves of his second store — the Bermuda Book Store — but felt that space, or the lack of it in this Queen Street shop might be an issue.

"They say most businesses don't make it past the first five years, but I think we've done OK," he said of closing store, which opened in 1992.