The UK’s high street is facing a wave of closures as retailers grapple with changing consumer habits and economic pressures. September alone will see several well-known names shutting down their brick-and-mortar operations, adding to the already significant number of store closures seen in 2023.
According to PwC UK, last year saw an average of 39 store closures per day, resulting in a total of 10,494 closures and 119,405 job losses across the sector. This trend shows no sign of slowing down as retailers adapt to the evolving retail landscape.
WHSmith
WHSmith, a staple of British high streets, has announced the closure of two stores this September. The craft and stationery giant is streamlining its operations and focusing on more profitable locations. The Sale branch, located in Stanley Square, will shut its doors on September 14, 2024. A spokesperson for WHSmith explained that the closure is due to the landlord’s redevelopment plans.
Beales
Beales, a department store chain struggling in the current retail climate, is closing its Liverpool store this month. The closure comes after the demise of other industry giants like Debenhams and House of Fraser. The Liverpool branch, a landmark in the area, offered a wide range of products from fashion to homeware. Beales’ Southport store, which reopened in 2021, is also undergoing a massive closing down sale, ending on September 7. These closures are part of Beales’ restructuring efforts to survive in a challenging market.
Boots
The pharmacy chain, Boots, has already closed several stores this year and is expected to close more by the end of summer. Four locations in London, including stores in Putney, Mornington Crescent, New Bridge Street, and Palmers Green, are among those slated for closure.
Co-op East of England
The Co-op East of England, an independent supermarket chain, is closing its store in Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich, on August 31. The store, which offers a range of food and household items, will be shutting down along with its in-store post office. The closure is part of the chain’s ongoing efforts to reshape its portfolio, opening new stores, refurbishing existing ones, and consolidating some locations.
The closure of these stores is a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by retailers on the UK’s high street. As consumer habits continue to evolve and economic pressures persist, more retailers are expected to make difficult decisions regarding their brick-and-mortar presence.
