Thousands of retailers across the UK are expected to shut their doors this year.
Thousands of UK businesses are expected to shut this year (Image: Getty)
Shoppers are “absolutely gutted” after a beloved high street shop announced its closure following a two-decade tenure in a UK village. In what has unfortunately become a familiar story, a popular discount store in the Cumbrian village of Staveley, has confirmed its upcoming permanent closure – leaving staff “devastated”. The local Original Village Shop will open for last time on July 12, a spokesperson said, as part of a downsizing effort from the 178-store chain, which is also preparing to lower the shutters on its Pembrokeshire branch this year.
A staff member at the Staveley store shared the sad news on Facebook, writing: “With a heavy heart, we regret to inform you that the rumours are true. “We have loved being a part of this community, in fact, no, we are proud! At this time we ask that you are considerate and respectful to our team as we are truly devastated.”
DON’T MISS
Powered by
Rachel Reeves savaged over new tax plan as businesses warn UK economy on the brink
Staff at the village branch said they were “devastated” by the news (Image: Google)
Local customers mourned the loss of a stalwart high street business in the comments, with one writing: “That’s dreadful. So sorry to read this as I love your shop. All the staff are amazing – good luck.”
“Absolutely gutted for you all,” another said. “My first ever job as a sales assistant and supervisor. 10 years of memories I have with you all. Wish you all the best for the future.”
The closures follow The Original Factory Shop’s owner, Modella Capital, announcing a restructuring effort involving rent negotiation at 88 of its branches.
The retailer has already closed over a dozen stores across the country over the last year – putting it in step with struggling businesses around the UK, buckling under the strain of higher rent and energy bills and a rise in employer National Insurance (NI) contributions.
The Centre for Retail Research has warned that around 17,350 stores across Britain are expected to closed this year – a nearly 30% increase from 2024, when just over 13,000 shut up shop for good.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the rise in employer NI from 13.8% to 15% in last year’s October budget, alongside a reduction in the threshold for employers to begin paying contributions from £9,100 to £5,000.
Labour claimed the change will raise £25 billion, but has sparked backlash from industry voices, who warned that, coupled with a rise in the national minimum wage, businesses would face significantly higher costs.
