UK High Streets Face Record Store Closures in 2025

Over 13,000 shops closed in 2024, with closures expected to rise further due to tax increases, wage hikes, and reduced financial support.

The Centre for Retail Research projects 17,350 UK store closures in 2025, a 29% increase from 2024's 13,479 closures.
Independent retailers are expected to account for 85% of 2025 closures, following a 45% rise in their shutdowns last year.
Budget changes will increase business rates, with the average shop's bill doubling from £3,589 to £8,613 in 2025-26, adding financial strain.
Retailers face additional cost pressures from a 6.7% minimum wage hike and higher National Insurance contributions starting in April 2025.
Despite widespread closures, some chains, like Co-op, plan to expand, with 75 new stores announced for 2025.