Matalan Announces Third Store Closure of the Year in Kendal
In a significant development for UK retail, major fashion and homeware chain Matalan has confirmed the closure of its third store this year. The affected location is at Lakeland Retail Park in Kendal, with customers informed they have until April 7 to make final purchases at this branch.
Immediate Impact on Shoppers and Staff
A Matalan spokesperson stated to Westmorland Gazette: "Our store at South Lakeland Retail Park will close in April. Our priority now is to support our colleagues. We are working closely with all those affected and, where possible, exploring alternative positions."
The spokesperson added: "We have thoroughly enjoyed serving customers at the retail park and hope they will continue to shop with us at our nearby Lancaster store."
Additional Store Closures Confirmed
This announcement follows reports from The Sun indicating that Matalan's Pendle and Carlisle stores are also scheduled for imminent closure. The stores at North Valley Retail Park in Colne and Carlisle are set to shut down on March 7, just days away.
A separate Matalan spokesman told The Sun regarding these closures: "Our priority now is to support our colleagues. We are working closely with all those affected and, where possible, exploring alternative positions. We have thoroughly enjoyed serving customers at the retail park and hope they will continue to shop with us at our nearby Accrington or Blackburn stores."
Matalan's Retail History and Current Position
Founded by John Hargreaves in 1985 with its first store in Preston, Matalan expanded rapidly over subsequent decades. The chain established numerous locations across UK high streets and retail parks, and even operates several stores in the Middle East. With over 270 stores currently, these closures represent a notable contraction in the retailer's physical presence.
The consecutive closures in Pendle, Carlisle, and now Kendal signal challenging times for the fashion and homeware sector. Customers in affected areas are advised to visit remaining nearby stores or utilize online shopping options as these physical locations prepare to cease operations.
