The Works, a British discount retailer with a significant presence on the high street for over 40 years, is set to close its Dereham, Norfolk store tomorrow. The closure comes as a result of failed lease renewal negotiations, marking one of nine store closures for the brand in Norfolk.
The Works, known for its wide range of products including books, stationery, and craft materials, has become a popular one-stop shop for value-conscious consumers. However, the Dereham store will cease trading, leaving shoppers with the closest alternative location in Swaffham, 11.8 miles away.
This store closure follows a series of similar closures for The Works in recent months. Earlier this year, the Penrith, Cumbria store shut down, and four other stores in Hitchin, Coulby Newham, Bridgend, and Croydon were lost in 2023. Jeremy Smith, property director at The Works, has attributed these changes to ongoing portfolio management.
Despite the closures, The Works remains committed to expanding its presence. The brand has plans to open more stores this year and has recently confirmed the opening of 14 new stores, the closure of 13, the relocation of three, and the refitting of 34 existing ones as part of its ‘better, not just bigger strategy’.
The Works’ commitment to enhancing customer experience is evident in its efforts to improve store layouts, optimize space utilization, and introduce clearer navigation and signage. This focus on customer satisfaction is a key factor in the brand’s ongoing success and expansion.
The Works is not the only retailer to close stores recently. Marks and Spencer, Costa Coffee, and WHSmith have all announced store closures as part of a broader trend in the retail industry. WHSmith, known for its wide range of books, magazines, and stationery, will lose two of its 1,400 branches this Sunday, with closures in Slough, Berkshire and Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.
