River Island Announces Final Wave of January Store Closures
A prominent UK fashion retailer is set to close 18 additional stores across the country within the coming week, marking a significant phase in its ongoing restructuring efforts. River Island is proceeding with its strategic plan, which will see a total of 33 outlets shut down by the end of January 2026.
Restructuring Plan Approved by High Court
This latest round of closures follows the High Court's approval of River Island's restructuring plan in August 2025. The company described the move as an essential step to transform the business and ensure its long-term viability in a challenging retail environment.
When the restructuring was initially announced, approximately 110 head office positions were made redundant as part of cost-cutting measures. Since receiving court confirmation, River Island has been actively negotiating with landlords to secure rent reductions at the majority of its remaining stores, aiming to prevent further closures beyond those already planned.
Potential Impact on Jobs and High Street Presence
With this restructuring strategy in place, industry analysts believe River Island could potentially preserve more than 140 branches and safeguard thousands of jobs across the British high street. The company's efforts to renegotiate lease terms are seen as crucial to maintaining its physical retail footprint amidst evolving consumer shopping habits.
Several stores have already ceased trading earlier this month, including the Sutton Coldfield branch which closed its doors just weeks ago. The upcoming closures represent the final batch of scheduled shutdowns for January, with all 18 locations expected to close before February 1st.
Complete List of Scheduled Closures
Stores closing on January 24:
- Bangor Bloomfield
- Cumbernauld
- Hartlepool
- Kilmarnock
- Northwich
- St Helens
Stores closing on January 31:
- Barnstaple
- Beckton
- Didcot
- Falkirk
- Gloucester
- Grimsby
- Hanley
- Hereford
- Kirkcaldy
- Oxford
- Poole
- Rochdale
The closures reflect broader challenges facing the UK retail sector, with fashion chains particularly affected by changing consumer behavior and economic pressures. River Island's restructuring represents a strategic attempt to adapt to these market conditions while preserving as much of its physical presence as possible through renegotiated rental agreements.
