River Island and Primark are among the major retailers that have revealed plans to close stores in January 2026. The Centre for Retail Research reported that 54 retailers went bankrupt last year, leading to the closure of 3,080 stores and the loss of 30,153 jobs. Retail sales volumes saw a slight decline of 0.1% in November, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
River Island is set to shut down at least 27 stores this month as part of its restructuring efforts, with locations like Brighton, Edinburgh Princes Street, Great Yarmouth, and Stockton-on-Tees already closed in late 2025. Further closures in Norwich, Norfolk, and Workington, Cumbria are pending confirmation dates.
Poundland is planning to close 12 stores in January following a High Court-approved reorganization. The discount retailer had closed 57 stores by September last year after being acquired by investment firm Gordon Brothers for a nominal fee.
Primark recently closed its Dartford store due to significant building repair needs, marking its first closure in over a decade. Philippa Nibbs, Primark’s director of sales for UK South and South East, stated that the decision was influenced by the extensive repair work required and the proximity of other Primark stores. Lloyds Banking Group, including Lloyds Bank, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland, will close a total of 34 bank branches this month, attributing the decision to the increasing trend of online banking usage.