UK store closures in September as M&S, Hobbycraft and more to shut shops for good

The UK is on course for 17,349 shop closures and around 201,953 retail job losses in 2025, underlining the scale of upheaval. Here’s a full list of stores that will close in September

High streets across the UK are set to take another hit as more chains permanently close their doors in September. The Centre for Retail Research predicts that by 2025, the UK will see 17,349 shop closures and approximately 201,953 retail job losses, highlighting the extent of the disruption.

Rising energy bills, increased commercial rents, and higher National Insurance contributions are putting pressure on brick-and-mortar retailers. Meanwhile, the convenience of online shopping is diverting spending and reducing foot traffic in town centres.

Once thriving shopping streets are now feeling the impact, with many becoming eerily quiet. In the latest sign of stress, Claire’s Accessories has fallen into administration and halted online orders, although all 306 UK and Ireland stores remain open for the time being.

Poundland, which plans to close 68 stores by mid-October, is also among those most affected.

The Original Factory Shop

The Original Factory Shop plans to close its Chard store on September 7 and Market Drayton on September 20. Other locations, including Middlewich, Blairgowrie, Heswall, Kinross, Nairn, Mexborough, and Whitchurch, are also earmarked for closure at later dates as the retailer restructures its portfolio and reduces overheads.

Marks & Spencer

Marks & Spencer will close its historic Dudley Street, Wolverhampton store on September 27 as part of its shift away from large department sites due to post-COVID trading pressures, and towards opening more food halls.

M&S regional manager, Calum Telford, said: “I would like to say a massive thanks to all our customers who have shopped with us over the years and our colleagues, past and present, who have contributed to the store.

“We have a proud history in Wolverhampton and are working with the city council to find a suitable alternative food location.

“This is part of our wider investment into the Black Country, including modernising our Merry Hill store, and we will keep the local community updated.”

M&S initially announced the store’s closure in July, citing a prolonged period of underperformance.

Bonmarché

Bonmarché is set to close its Scarborough branch on September 14 due to the Brunswick Centre undergoing redevelopment, although the chain is actively hunting for a new local site.

New Look

New Look is set to close its Scarborough store on September 5, and additional locations are expected to close this year as leases end. The company blames inflationary pressures and increased National Insurance costs for a wider programme that could result in around 100 stores closing.

GAME

As part of Frasers Group’s restructuring, GAME will be closing several stores: Metrocentre, Gateshead, on September 7; The Galleries, Bristol, on September 25; and Chatham, Kent, before the end of the month, as it streamlines operations.

Hobbycraft

Hobbycraft has announced the closure of six stores in September—Stafford, Wigan, Maidenhead, King’s Lynn, Chichester, and Crayford—as part of a wider restructuring plan to cut costs and refocus the estate.

River Island

River Island has announced that it will close its Edinburgh store on September 5 as part of a restructuring plan that will see at least 33 shops go, following mounting losses and weaker sales.