JD Sports Confirms Closure of Two Hip Stores in Major UK Cities
JD Sports has officially announced the impending closure of two of its Hip brand stores, located in Leeds and Manchester, as part of a strategic phase-out of the boutique retailer. The closures are scheduled to occur within the coming weeks, with both sites set to shut their doors permanently before the end of June 2026.
Specific Details on Store Shutdowns and Timeline
The Hip store in Leeds, situated on Vicar Lane, will close imminently, while the Manchester branch at 63 Thomas Street in the Northern Quarter is confirmed to shutter on June 28, 2026. These closures mark a significant shift for JD Sports, which acquired the Hip brand in 2014 after a year-long search for investment.
Originally, Hip operated as a niche alternative to mainstream JD Sports outlets, offering a curated selection of luxury and premium sportswear and streetwear for both men and women. The Manchester location, which took over the former Oi Polloi site in June 2023, featured brands such as Adidas Originals, Nike, Stone Island, C.P. Company, Carhartt WIP, Beams Plus, Engineered Garments, Needles, and Paraboot.
Replacement Strategy and Broader Business Context
Following the closures, the Leeds store will be replaced by Size?, another retailer owned by the JD Sports group. This move aligns with JD Sports' broader business strategy, which includes recent announcements about integrating artificial intelligence into its shopping experience.
The company plans to introduce "one-click purchases" through AI platforms like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, allowing customers to buy products directly without leaving the apps. This technology is set to launch in the United States in the coming months, with potential expansion into other regions, reflecting JD Sports' focus on innovation and adapting to evolving retail trends.
The phase-out of the Hip brand represents a notable development in the UK retail landscape, impacting high streets in key urban centers. JD Sports had previously emphasized that Hip stores would offer exclusive and highly sought-after products, but the decision to close these locations underscores the competitive pressures and strategic realignments facing the sportswear industry.
