A beloved lifestyle and chain with over 60 branches in the UK has confirmedof one of its stores this month. The retailer Joules has announced that its branch in Salisbury will close on April 21.
The news of the closure was told to local shoppers through a sign in the window of the New Canal Street branch last week. The sign read: “This store is closing. We’ve taken the decision to close this store on April 21. We’d like to thank you for supporting us over the years. And remember, you can always find us online at joules.com.”
Local fans of the retailer took to social media to express their disappointment in the announcement. One person wrote: "Another shop closing! Salisbury needs to wake up before it dies in its sleep. Parking is too expensive and the restrictions too extensive!"
Another complained: "Sad, another good shop leaving the city, soon won’t be any left that are worth a visit."
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Founder and chief executive Tom Joule confirmed that the closure was a "difficult decision". He said: ""After a thorough review of our retail operations, we’ve made the difficult decision to close our Salisbury store. This decision reflects changes in our commercial agreements. However, we remain committed to our loyal customers in Salisbury and are actively exploring solutions to reestablish our presence in the area. Our goal is to continue providing the best possible in-store experience."
According to a report by the Salisbury Journal, the shop space has now been listed on Woolley & Wallis estate agents. Joules was established in 1989 and is known for its vibrant British-designed casualwear for men, women, and children and accessories.
However, like many other high street chains, the company has faced mounting challenges over the last few years. In 2022, Joules entered administration, putting 132 UK shops and 1,600 jobs at risk. Fellow fashion retailer Next came to the recur in a £41million deal which saved 100 shops and around 1,450 jobs. However, 19 stores were forced to close, with 133 jobs across the UK affected.
At the time, Next’s chief executive Lord Simon Wolfson said he was optimistic about the future of the brand, highlighting the potential in combining Joules’ “exceptional product, marketing and brand building skills with Next’s Total Platform infrastructure”.
It is important to note that retailers close stores for a variety of reasons, and it doesn't just mean they are in trouble. Some close because the tenancy has come to an end on the site, or that the branch is not as profitable as others.
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