Disappearing businesses.

[margaret]

Unfortunately I read today that the stores, Oasis and Warehouse are going into administration.
Also Laura Ashley are closing.

[rebbonk]

The present situation has hastened things, but they were on thin ice before all of this. I fear that our present problems will be the catalyst (or excuse!) for many more businesses to cease trading.

[margaret]

I suppose that the internet is another underlying factor here, in that online shopping is the shape of things to come. (Though I sincerely hope not). With these small businesses, I think you would need to do a detailed analysis of what kind of businesses are , because I suspect the niche ones will survive anyway.

[rebbonk]

Rising rent and rates, falling foot-fall few will be immune. I even know of a couple of specialised model shops that have closed their doors.

Some specialist type shops might be able to adapt to an online model, but I suspect many will only be shorterm until the present owners retire.

I suspect that high-end clothes shops might survive and the more upmarket jewellers, but for most, the future must be looking very bleak.

[Lex]

Well, that's the Leamington & Stratford branches of Debenhams officially gone: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-52330268

[Lex]

The county will soon be bereft of Debenhams branches: https://www.stratford-herald.com/109211-housing-plan-proposed-landmark-southam-restaurant.html

[rebbonk]

Very difficult times ahead, Lex.

[Lex]

There are. One independent shop where I live seems to have called it a day - a 'to let' sign has appeared in the window. :(