Currently, the British high street is facing uncertainty as several retailers have announced the closure of their branches. This trend has been ongoing for the past few years, with many businesses either shutting down or going out of business entirely. While some are transitioning to online platforms or undergoing significant changes, their physical presence on the high street is diminishing. In June, Poundland revealed plans to close more stores in the upcoming weeks. The company was acquired by US investment firm Gordon Brothers for just £1, and the closures are part of a strategy to revitalize the struggling business. Here is a comprehensive list of stores that are shutting down or planning closures in June, including Holland and Barrett, Iceland, River Island, and more.
Poundland's Store Closures
Poundland has closed over a dozen stores since last year due to a decline in sales. The budget retailer was put up for sale earlier this year after experiencing a 6.5% drop in revenue to £830 million in the six months leading up to March. During this period, 18 stores were already shut down. The next five stores set to close are:
- Barrow Dalton Road - closed on June 12
- Union Gate, Bristol - closing on June 20
- Flint - closing on June 21
- Cowes, Isle of Wight - closing in July
- Newquay - closing on August 1
River Island Closure
River Island is closing its branch in Banbury, Oxfordshire on June 28. The fashion retailer made the announcement on Facebook, directing customers to shop online or visit their nearest stores in Rugby and Oxford.
Smiggle Closure
Popular stationery shop Smiggle is closing its York branch permanently on June 15. The store, known for its colorful pencil cases and schoolbags, has 106 locations across the UK. In May, Smiggle stores in Inverness and Shrewsbury were shut down, following an earlier closure in Dundee in January. Another closure is expected at Cwmbran Shopping Centre in August.
Hobbycraft Closure
Hobbycraft, a DIY retailer with over 100 stores in the UK, will be closing its Imperial Park, Bristol branch on June 21. The store is offering a 50% discount on all items before shutting down permanently.
Holland and Barrett Closure
The health and wellbeing chain will be closing its Inverness store this month. Signs in the window direct customers to shop online at hollandandbarrett.com, but the exact closure date is unknown.
Iceland Closure
Iceland has already closed two stores this year and will be shutting down its Margate, College Square store on June 21. Customers bid farewell to the frozen food retailer's branch permanently.
The Works Closure
Earlier this month, The Works closed its Margate High Street store as part of its ongoing efforts to optimize its store portfolio. The budget stationery store expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the closure.
Source: Daily Express