Fashion Retailer Shuts Two More Shops
New Look, a major fashion retailer, has confirmed that it will be closing two of its branches in the coming days, dealing yet another blow to the struggling UK high street. The first store to close is the New Look branch in Beverley, East Yorkshire, which shut its doors for the final time today. This was followed by the closure of the New Look store in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, tomorrow. The closures come as part of New Look's ongoing restructuring efforts.
Shoppers Express Disappointment
Customers and fans of New Look are expressing their disappointment at the closures. Team members of the Beverley store took to social media, posting on the shop's Facebook page to thank their loyal customers for their support. Shoppers flooded the post with messages of support, expressing sadness at the closure and calling it a "massive loss." In Bromsgrove, customers will have their final chance to visit their local New Look store before it shuts down permanently.
New Look Continues Restructuring Efforts
New Look has stated that these closures are part of their normal business operations, which include store closures, relocations, and new site openings. While the company has closed a number of shops in recent weeks, they have also opened several new stores across the country this year.
UK High Street Struggles Continue
The closure of New Look stores adds to the growing list of retailers that have shut their doors on the high street in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic, changing consumer shopping habits, rising energy costs, and the cost of living crisis have all contributed to the struggles faced by high street retailers. The closure of 15 New Look stores over the past year reflects the challenging environment for brick-and-mortar stores.
Other Retailers Feel the Impact
New Look is not the only retailer experiencing difficulties, as several other high street chains have also announced store closures. Well-known brands like M&Co and Paperchase have closed all their UK stores, while Shoezone and House of Fraser are also closing some of their locations. Even food and drinks chains like Wetherspoons and Frankie and Benny's have been affected and are shutting down certain locations.
Some Retailers Buck the Trend
Despite the challenges faced by the high street, some retailers have managed to thrive and even plan to open new stores. Poundland, a discount chain, is set to open 15 new shops in the coming weeks, while Greggs aims to open 150 new sites this year. These success stories offer a glimmer of hope for the struggling UK high street.
Full List of New Look Store Closures
Below is the full list of New Look stores that have closed or are scheduled to close:
- Bromsgrove – September 9
- Beverley – September 8
- Slough – September 5
- Windsor – September 5
- Cornmarket, Lancaster – September 2
- Crossgates shopping centre, Leeds – end of August
- Kings Chase Shopping Centre, Bristol – August 9
Conclusion
The closure of more New Look stores is the latest blow to the struggling UK high street. While some retailers continue to face challenges, others are finding ways to adapt and grow. The future of the high street remains uncertain, but there is hope that innovative new strategies and consumer support can help revive this important part of British culture.
