An iconic footwear chain is set to close one of its stores in a high street double whammy. Clarks will be shutting its doors to shoppers at the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre in Kent. The closure was announced through a poster on the store window, and it is unclear what will happen to the current staff. The footwear shop is expected to close in mid-November, leaving the nearest Clarks store in Deal High Street or Whitefriars in Canterbury.
Customers Express Disappointment on Social Media
Customers took to social media platforms to express their disappointment upon hearing the news. One customer described it as "absolutely shocking news" and expressed hope that new businesses will take up Clarks' place. Another commented on the high rents, rates, and cost-of-living crisis, stating that this news is likely to be seen more frequently in the future.
Iconic Jewellery Brand Also Announces Departure
In addition to Clarks, luxury jewellery brand Iconic Jewellery also announced its departure from the Westwood Cross Shopping Centre.
Clarks Confirms Closure, Offers Online Shopping
A spokesperson from Clarks confirmed the closure, stating that the store at Westwood Cross will close in late 2023. They emphasized their duty to their employees and mentioned ongoing consultation with the store team. The spokesperson also assured customers that they can still shop from the full range of Clarks products online or at nearby stores in Deal and Canterbury.
Recent Closures Add to Decline in Clarks' Store Presence
This closure comes after Clarks shut its doors to customers at the Fareham Shopping Centre in July. The chain also closed a store in Dundee on July 25. Prior to these closures, Clarks had already closed stores in Ashford and Gillingham in Kent at the end of 2022. From its peak of operating over 1,400 stores and franchises internationally, Clarks now operates just 320 stores as of July 2023.
Founded in 1825 by Cyrus Clark in Street, Somerset, Clarks has been battling to maintain a presence on the high street.
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