River Island closes 33 UK branches

River Island confirms 33 store closures in the UK after obtaining court approval for a restructuring plan, including a Greater Manchester branch in Rochdale.

River Island to close 33 UK branches after restructuring

River Island has confirmed it will close 33 stores across the UK after securing court approval for a restructuring plan. The Rochdale branch in Greater Manchester is among the outlets earmarked for closure, with the company saying the measure will help steady finances while preserving the rest of the network.

The plan also includes rent reductions at 71 other sites as the retailer seeks to lighten cash pressure. River Island said it had feared administration unless it acted. The closures span stores in London, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, though the full list is expected to be published.

The move reflects a broader trend among fashion retailers facing tight margins and shifting consumer habits. A lighter footprint can protect the core business, but it also risks shrinking the brand's physical presence at a time when shopping experiences and in-store services matter to customers.

For local economies, the closures hit town centers that rely on foot traffic from diverse retailers. The rent reductions suggest a pragmatic compromise with landlords, but the reboot will require careful communication with workers and customers and a plan to transition staff to other roles or branches.

Highlights

The path to a leaner footprint will test how retail can adapt without undermining communities that rely on town centers.