One of the UK's major footwear retailers has launched dramatic closing-down sales at two of its stores, with one branch set to shut its doors for good next month.
Newbury Store Closure and Final Sale
Deichmann is closing its store at Newbury Retail Park, with a final trading day scheduled for February 14. In a bid to clear stock, the chain is currently offering customers 25 per cent off all items under an "everything must go" promotion.
The announcement has been met with disappointment from local shoppers on social media. One resident commented: "With these closures the retail park is losing its soul." Another stated bluntly: "If you want to go out shopping, don't come to Newbury, everything is closing down." A third user pointed to wider trends, adding: "Bottom line this is the way most High Street retailers will go. Too many people shop online these days."
Newport Closure After 17 Years
This news follows closely on the heels of another permanent closure for the German brand. Deichmann shut its store on Commercial Street in Newport on Saturday, January 11, 2025, after trading in the Welsh city for 17 years.
The company, which operates approximately 4,600 branches globally, confirmed the closure to local media. Store manager Tobias Cordus told the South Wales Argus that staff were informed of the decision weeks ago. He indicated that sale stock, including items from Black Friday promotions, would remain at 50% off.
Community Reaction and High Street Concerns
The closure has intensified concerns about the vitality of local high streets. Newport local Russel Jones remarked: "Another one going from the town in 48 hours shutting shop." Another social media user warned, "Newport is going to be like Ebbw Vale, a ghost town," while a further comment read: "Yet another shop closing in Newport. It has stopped being affordable."
Responding to speculation online, one dejected shopper claimed the Newport site was "being made into flats apparently." These closures contribute to a growing narrative of challenges facing physical retail, with consumers increasingly turning to online shopping and rising operational costs impacting store viability.
