Shoe Chain Closes 39 Stores Amid Sales Decline – See If Yours Is Affected

A leading shoe retailer, Shoe Zone, has closed 39 stores amid a significant sales decline. The company reported a drop in its total locations from 297 to 269 within the last 52 weeks, ending in September 2025.
Shoe Store Closures and Impact
Despite closing 39 locations, Shoe Zone also launched 11 new stores and renovated six. The full list of affected stores has not been disclosed, but notable closures have occurred in:
- Bexhill Town Centre
- Boscombe
- Bournemouth
- Burgess Hill
- West Sussex
Previously, the chain shut down branches in various towns, including Watford, Stoke-on-Trent, and Inverness.
Sales Decline and Economic Challenges
Shoe Zone’s revenue for the reporting period was £149.1 million, reflecting a 7.6% decrease compared to the previous year. The company’s chairman, Charles Smith, acknowledged the challenging economic environment exacerbated by:
- High inflation
- Increased interest rates
- Declining consumer confidence
Smith noted that while certain seasons drove sales, overall discretionary spending remained low as consumers became more cautious with their budgets.
Sector-Wide Retail Struggles
Shoe Zone is not alone in facing economic pressures affecting retail. Other notable brands, like New Look and River Island, have also announced significant store closures. Key statistics include:
- New Look planning nearly 100 store closures
- River Island shutting over 33 locations
The impact of rising National Insurance contributions and business rates has forced many retailers to evaluate their operational viability.
Future Predictions for Retail
The British Retail Consortium warns that a continual rise in costs could lead to the closure of approximately 400 larger retail formats, which include department stores and supermarkets. Analysts predict a grim outlook for the retail sector in 2025, estimating up to 202,000 job losses due to mounting operational costs.
Conclusion
The recent closures at Shoe Zone highlight ongoing challenges in the retail sector. As consumer spending fluctuates due to economic conditions, the future of many retail chains hangs in the balance. Stay tuned to El-Balad for further updates on this evolving story.