🌍 Major High Street Shake-Up in 2025 🌍
It’s been quite a turbulent year for UK high streets, with almost 800 stores closing their doors. 😢 Big names like Poundland, WH Smith, New Look, and many more have all been impacted by financial pressures, leaving gaps in our beloved shopping streets.
📉 Even longstanding favourites haven’t been spared. WH Smith, a staple since 1792, sold off its high street stores, and the iconic brand will be replaced by new owner Modella Capital’s TGJones.
💔 Family-favourite fashion spot Claire’s, beloved by accessory hunters, faced store closures after its US owner hit bankruptcy. And who hasn’t cherished a slice at Pizza Hut over the years? Well, 68 of its UK outlets are no more, with more job losses following restructuring.
🏷️ Bargain lover’s haven Poundland closed 57 stores this year and is set to shrink even further, with its new restructuring strategy. New Look and River Island were also on the downsize bandwagon, shutting numerous locations to brace for future challenges.
💡 It’s not just retail suffering. Even coffee giant Starbucks is slimming down, quietly closing some of its spots, while popular brand Brewdog shut 10 of its iconic bars including its first ever venue. 🍻
DIY enthusiasts saw 65 Homebase stores vanish, while chic tile retailer Fired Earth shut down completely. Modella Capital saved some Claire’s stores but Bodycare, Hobbycraft, and others couldn’t escape the economic strain.
2025 has highlighted the urgent changes sweeping across the retail landscape, as we witness the impact of strained consumer finances and rising inflation. Amidst it all, it’s clear: the high street as we know it is changing. Are you feeling the effects of these closures in your area? Let us know your thoughts! 💬🔍