A new list of the most endangered shops on the high street has been revealed with 132,945 expected to close within the next 15 years.
The UK has seen thousands of shops close over the last few years, as the move to online ordering, Covid lockdowns and the cost-of-living has hampered both independent and large businesses.
Electrical appliance shops currently top the list of the most endangered and are expected to be gone by 2029, according to analysis from Simply Business.
One much loved electrical shop in west London was forced to close their doors for good after trading for 95 years.
City Radio Stores on Bond Street, Ealing, has shut leaving customers ‘distraught’ claiming it was ‘the best electrical shop in the world’.
The store first opened in 1929 and has been a staple of the high street in Ealing which has come to be dominated by chain retail companies.
Shoe shops and homeware stores are also expected to be wiped out by 2034, and are experiencing their fastest decline ever.
Pubs, bars and newsagents has seen the largest overall drop in registrations and an increase in closures.
Simply Business have launched a ‘Bleak Friday’ campaign to urge shoppers to support small and independent business.
Geoff Keen, Landlord of The Pelton Arms said: ‘It’s bittersweet to be taking part in Simply Business’ “Bleak Friday” campaign as it brings to light the very real fears that keep all small and independent business owners up at night.
‘We understand firsthand how difficult times are not just for pubs but across all sectors to keep our livelihood afloat against the various issues we face on a daily basis.’
Bea Montoya, UK Chief Operating Officer at Simply Business said: ‘Britain’s independent high street is at breaking point. Our research paints a bleak picture – if we don’t act urgently, our high streets will soon look vastly different.
‘Independent pubs, newsagents and others will soon be extinct, and the impact this will have on communities will be devastating.’
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