River Island has confirmed its Newport store at Friars Walk will close this weekend, as the high street fashion retailer continues a major restructuring that has already shut over 30 UK locations in recent months
A prominent high street fashion chain is preparing to close one of its long-standing stores this weekend. River Island has confirmed that its outlet at the Friars Walk shopping centre in Newport, Wales, will shut its doors for good on Sunday (April 19).
The store first welcomed customers alongside the shopping centre’s opening in 2015, meaning it has been serving shoppers for just over a decade.
This closure forms part of a broader reshuffle for the brand, which boasts more than 220 outlets across the UK and Ireland. In recent months, the retailer has already closed over 30 stores as part of a restructuring plan aimed at steadying the business.
As the Newport branch gears up for closure, customers have been treated to discounts of up to 50% off in a clearance sale, according to South Wales Argus.
Earlier this month, a notice was displayed in the shop window. It stated: “This store is closing (Sunday 19th April). Thanks for shopping with us – we’ve had a blast!
“You can still shop the latest trends at riverisland.com and nearby locations. With love, RI.”
The impending closure has sparked reactions from local shoppers, with some voicing disappointment at the loss of another familiar name from the city centre, reports the Express.
Friars Walk is a sprawling 390,000 square feet shopping centre spread over multiple levels, which opened its doors in 2015. The complex also houses a bowling alley and a soft play area.
Friars Walk is a hub for a variety of high street brands, eateries, and a cinema. The centre initially opened with over 20 high street brands, but its roster has evolved over the years, leaving only a few of the original stores.
Marks & Spencer has announced that its Friars Walk branch will shut down towards the end of June due to the expiration of its lease, while Smiggle closed its doors earlier this year in January.
On a brighter note, Next recently confirmed its commitment to Friars Walk by extending its lease and planning to stay for the foreseeable future.
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