Britain’s high streets are facing an unprecedented crisis as a significant number of retail chains announce closures, exacerbated by shifting consumer habits and rising operational costs. In 2024 alone, over 13,000 high street stores were permanently closed, according to data from the Centre for Retail Research. With the fallout continuing into 2026, numerous well-known brands are set to shut their doors, putting thousands of jobs at risk.
The retail landscape has changed dramatically as shoppers increasingly opt for online purchases. This trend has driven several major brands, including Claire’s, Bodycare, and Poundland, into administration in 2025. The situation is compounded by a rise in operating costs, notably due to Labour’s recent increase in the minimum wage, and other financial pressures outlined in the latest Budget.
Confirmed Closures for 2026
The list of retailers preparing for closures includes several notable names.
River Island, a prominent fashion retailer, will close 32 stores in January 2026 as part of a restructuring effort aimed at addressing declining sales. The company reported a pre-tax loss of £32.3 million last year, with turnover dropping 15% to £578.1 million. This decision jeopardizes the jobs of many of its approximately 5,500 employees across the UK.
In a similar vein, Poundland is undergoing significant changes, having already shut numerous locations this year. An additional 32 stores are scheduled for closure by February 2026, bringing the total to 100 closures as part of an ongoing restructuring plan. Clearance sales with discounts of up to 40% are currently being offered in these stores. The retailer was sold for just £1 to investment fund Gordon Brothers earlier this year, marking a dramatic shift in its ownership.
Another significant announcement came from Cancer Research UK, which revealed plans to close approximately 90 charity shops by May 2026. This decision stems from increasing operational costs and a shift in consumer behaviour. The charity aims to reduce its store count to around 320 locations over the next two years while still pursuing the opening of 12 larger “superstores” by 2028.
Outdoor retailer Trespass has also been impacted, with several branches already closed this year and more to follow. The Southampton store on Above Bar Street will shut on March 9, 2026, following a trend that has seen the closure of additional locations throughout the year. The retailer cited a decline in customer footfall as a contributing factor to its struggles.
Challenges for High Street Landlords
The rising number of empty storefronts poses a significant challenge for local economies. Industry leaders and council representatives have raised concerns about the difficulty in contacting landlords of closed shops, many of whom are based overseas. John McGinty, chief executive of Gloucester City Council, noted that local authorities often find themselves “writing to overseas addresses and not getting any responses,” highlighting the complexity of addressing the issue of vacant properties.
Tina McKenzie, policy chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, emphasized that the prevalence of empty shops can deter shoppers and create an unappealing environment for remaining businesses. “Being faced with numerous empty outlets can be a real problem,” she stated.
As the battle to revive Britain’s high streets intensifies, the future of retail remains uncertain. The confirmed closures in 2026 reflect broader economic trends and consumer preferences, leaving many communities to grapple with the implications of these changes.
