Another long-established city shop will close on Wednesday after more than three decades - causing alarm among its sweet-toothed customers.

But patrons of Auntie Ammie's General Store are being re-assured they will still be able to get their fix of American candy as owners Tony and Anna-Marie Caggiano will continue the business online.

Originally known as the Dover Street newsagents, it was bought by Tony and Angela Caggiano in 1986 and the shop proved especially popular with early-morning commuters heading for the station.

It was an early start carried on by their daughter, Anne-Marie, when she and husband John took over the business nine years ago.

But competition from supermarkets and other outlets increasingly put pressure on the business and the couple were forced to diversify.

By chance, they found a new source of sales five years ago with a few packets of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which flew off the shelves.

Soon they started stocking a huge selection of American candy, alongside the regular confectionary, newpapers and tobacco.

But now the couple have sold up and will be moving out of the area with their three children.

"We just decided it was the right time for a change, " said John. We were still opening at 5.15am like Anna-Marie's parents because that is what customers expected, even though trade was nothing like in their time.

"It is harder for small shops to survive these days, but the candy business has been doing well and we will continue that online."

The couple owned the building and lived above the shop. It has now been sold and unlikely to be a newsagents again.

John says they will miss their loyal regulars and appreciate the many warm comments posted on social media wishing them well.

They plan to grow the online candy business website www.auntieammiescandy.com and work from their new home.