An iconic shoe shop with a network of over 300 branches is set to close another store in the coming days, adding to the string of closures it has experienced in recent years. Clarks, a well-known footwear brand in the UK, has announced that it will permanently shut its Witham store, located in The Grove Shopping Centre, on Saturday, January 13. This news comes as no surprise to shoppers who have witnessed a series of store closures by the brand in 2023.
Clarks confirms closure of Witham store
Clarks spokesperson stated, "Clarks confirms its store at The Grove Centre, Witham will close on January 13, 2024. We'd like to thank our loyal customers who have shopped with us at our Witham store, and we'll be delighted to continue to serve them with our full range of products online and at our nearby Clarks stores in Chelmsford, Colchester, and Wickford."
Shoppers express lack of surprise
Shoppers have taken to social media to express their lack of surprise at the closure. One shopper commented on Facebook, "Not surprised really, priced itself out of the market. Even sale prices now aren't affordable to the average person." Another shopper mentioned that they will now have to travel to Chelmsford for their shoe shopping needs. However, despite the disappointment, many shoppers still voiced their loyalty to the brand.
Clarks' struggle amidst ongoing challenges
Clarks' closure of the Witham store adds to the ongoing challenges faced by high street chains. The cost of living crisis, high inflation, and energy costs are taking their toll on retailers. Shoppers are cutting back on spending, while the operational costs of running a physical store have increased, making it difficult for some retailers to sustain their business. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) reported that the UK lost 6,000 stores over the past five years.
Positive news amidst closures
Despite the closures, there is positive news for shoppers as other retailers are expanding. Discount retailer Costco plans to open 14 more warehouses in the UK over the next two years, while Bonmarche is opening at least seven new stores after filing for administration in 2019. Additionally, once-huge bakery chain Patisserie Valerie is reopening branches after closing most of its stores.
Conclusion
As Clarks closes another store, it is evident that the challenges faced by retailers in today's competitive digital world are impacting even the most iconic brands. However, as some stores close their doors, others are finding ways to adapt and continue serving their customers.
