Caffè Nero to Shut Doors on September 28
A major high street cafe with 600 stores nationwide is preparing to close its doors within days. Caffè Nero in Reading will be shutting down after its affiliated store, flagship department store House of Fraser, announced its closure last month.
Staff to Be Redeployed to Other Local Nero Stores
The coffee outlet will officially pull the plug on September 28. However, according to the Reading Chronicle, staff will be redeployed to other nearby Caffè Nero locations.
House of Fraser's Storied History in Berkshire Town
House of Fraser has been a fixture in the Berkshire town of Reading since 1999. Despite enduring two recessions and the challenges of a global pandemic, the department store will be vacating its current building next week.
Bargain Hunters Flock as House of Fraser Discounts Items
As news of the closure spread, bargain hunters have been flocking to House of Fraser. The store is currently offering heavily discounted fashion and beauty products, some of which are up to 50% off. Shelves are emptying fast, with the Jack Wills section completely bare.
Plans to Replace Building with Flats
With the building becoming increasingly derelict, there are plans to develop 400 flats in its place. This move aims to revitalize the area and offer new housing options.
Other Coffee Chains Also Struggling
Caffè Nero is not the only coffee chain experiencing closures across the UK. Costa Coffee is shutting down its Oakham shop in the East Midlands, following a series of closures in recent months. The chain, which has over 2,000 sites in the UK, has closed six stores, including branches in Ellesmere Port, Witney, and Wigan town centre.
Challenges Facing Retailers in the UK
A combination of factors, including high inflation since 2022, online retail's popularity, and increased energy and wage costs, has led to many retailers struggling to stay afloat.
House of Fraser Continues to Shut Stores
House of Fraser has closed a number of its stores as part of its recent changes. The closure of its flagship department store in Reading adds to the list of closures across the country.
