Several well-known high street brands, including Poundland, River Island, and M&S, are preparing to shutter stores across the UK in the coming weeks. The Centre for Retail Research has projected a significant number of closures in 2025, estimating around 17,349 shops could cease operations, leading to approximately 201,953 job losses within the retail sector. Factors such as escalating energy costs, rising rents, and increased National Insurance contributions are cited as key contributors to the challenges faced by struggling retailers.
The trend of consumers shifting towards online shopping has also played a role in diminishing foot traffic in town centers, further impacting brick-and-mortar stores. Poundland, for instance, has been steadily closing multiple stores nationwide following its acquisition by investment firm Gordon Brothers for a symbolic £1.
Among the impending closures, Poundland locations in Whitby, Wealdstone, Pontypool, and Irvine are scheduled to cease operations in the first half of September. The Original Factory Shop is also undergoing a restructure, with closures planned for its stores in Chard and Market Drayton. Additionally, several other locations, including Middlewich, Blairgowrie, Heswall, Kinross, Nairn, Mexborough, and Whitchurch, are expected to close later in the year.
In line with strategic changes, Marks and Spencer will be shutting down its flagship store in Wolverhampton’s city center on Dudley Street by the end of September. This move aligns with the retailer’s focus on enhancing its food-only stores, as announced in 2022. Bonmarché is set to close its Scarborough branch due to ongoing redevelopment in the Brunswick Centre, while New Look has also confirmed the closure of its Scarborough store in response to anticipated future store closures following tax increases.
Gaming retailer GAME is undergoing a significant restructuring, resulting in the closure of its stores in Gateshead, Bristol, and Chatham, Kent, within the month. Hobbycraft is also streamlining its operations, with plans to close six stores in September, including those in Stafford, Wigan, Maidenhead, King’s Lynn, Chichester, and Crayford. River Island has announced the closure of its Edinburgh store, with further plans to shut down 33 additional shops in January 2026.
The retail landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with store closures becoming a common occurrence as businesses adapt to changing consumer behaviors and economic challenges.