UK High Street woes continue as 38 shops reportedly close every day

Closing down

In the first half of this year, pharmacies, pubs, and banks accounted for half of the closures on Britain’s High Streets, according to data. A total of 6,945 stores have shut down in 2024, averaging 38 closures per day

Taking new store openings into account, the net closure rate stands at 12 stores per day, a slight increase from the previous year.

Research by accountancy firm PwC reportedly indicates that each week, an average of 18 pharmacies, 16 pubs, and nine banks closed from January to June 2024.

In contrast, only three convenience stores and one café chain have opened, underscoring the significant transformations occurring in town centres.

The previous year recorded a net closure rate of 11 stores per day.

Amazon plans discount store to fend off the rise of Temu and Shein

Online shopper

Amazon is reportedly preparing to launch a new store section on its site dedicated to low-priced fashion and lifestyle items.

The move is aimed at competing with e-commerce upstarts Temu and Shein, both of which have ties to China.

The new storefront will offer unbranded products, with numerous items priced below $20. Amazon plans to ship these goods directly from China, targeting a delivery window of round 10 days. This initiative is a strategic move by Amazon to counter increasing competition and broaden its assortment while preserving competitive pricing.

While the precise launch date has not been announced, the storefront is anticipated to begin accepting products in the autumn of 2024.