Hobbycraft closes six more stores in September: where the sales are.

According to The Sun: The popular retail chain Hobbycraft is closing six stores next month as part of a restructuring to prevent the chain from collapsing.

The stores that will be closed in September include Stafford, Wigan, Maidenhead, King’s Lynn, Chichester, and Crayford. The closures are accompanied by sales with discounts ranging from 20% to 50% in various locations; for example, the store in Wigan is offering discounts of up to 50%.

In May, Hobbycraft began a strategic review of its business to address financial challenges. As part of this review, the brand closed nine underperforming stores in June. Company director Alex Wilson indicated that the restructuring plan is aimed at preserving the future of at least 99 stores and 1,800 jobs.

Expressing the difficult decision to close stores, Wilson emphasized that this is a necessary step to maintain the ability to purchase crafting materials nationwide.

Complete list of closed Hobbycraft stores

Stores that have already closed:

• Bagshot
• Basildon
• Borehamwood
• Bristol Imperial
• Bromborough
• Canterbury
• Cirencester
• Dunstable
• Epping Forest
• Lakeside
• Southport
• Stratford Upon Avon

Stores that will close next month:

• Stafford
• Wigan
• Maidenhead
• King’s Lynn
• Chichester
• Crayford

More closures on the high streets

Various factors such as rising costs, declining footfall, and the shift to online shopping have impacted high streets, leading to many store closures or forced bankruptcies.

Poundland is closing 49 branches this month and plans to close a total of 68 by mid-October after being acquired by investment firm Pepco. River Island has received permission to close 33 branches, while The Original Factory Shop is closing branches as part of a restructuring.

Footasylum has closed several stores across the country, and GAME has lowered prices in its closing stores. The retail giant announced the closure of six stores, including branches in Newcastle and Bristol. Additionally, the jewelry chain Claire's has gone bankrupt, halting online orders for customers.

Due to network optimization and declining store footfall, Hobbycraft has decided to close six more stores. This is an integral part of the overall restructuring of the company aimed at maintaining stability and business growth. Focusing on more profitable stores and preserving the brand's external image are important aspects of the company’s strategy in these challenging retail conditions.