Big blow for 'fantastic' shopping center because fashion chain closes abruptly
EMBARRASSED customers said goodbye to a much-loved store in a major shopping center after bosses suddenly closed the venue.
Popular outlet Rushden Lakes, in Northamptonshire, sadly confirmed that a fashion retailer was pulling down its shutters for good on Monday.
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Robert Goddard was praised by shoppers for its friendly staff and luxury selection of brands.
A spokesman for Rushden Lakes said: “We can confirm that Robert Goddard has closed Rushden Lakes.”
And unfortunately, the designer branch was just the first of many planned closures at the mall.
Customers were discouraged to see sale signs taped to Robert Goddard's windows.
They said the store prided itself on: “A nice selection of brands and just the right amount per brand.”
“Beautiful clothing for men and women and fantastic staff and customer service,” said another.
Someone else agreed: “Good store and very helpful people working there.”
“One of my favorite stores. I love clothes and rarely leave empty handed,” wrote a fourth.
“Absolutely top notch customer service and great quality,” added another.
BROKEN PROMISES
The shock closure comes after the brand, which has ten locations, promised that there would be no store closures.
In June last year, Drapers reported that the retailer had suffered a CVA that would save their stores and 100 employees.
It was understood the CVA will last for five years and will see rent reductions for selected sectors.
Tookman, owner and managing director, previously said: “We are pleased that all our suppliers and landlords have supported us through the process and we look forward to a successful future.
“All ten stores remain open and continue to operate normally.
“We have proposed a CVA to ensure the continued viability and success of the business and we look forward to putting this behind us and moving forward positively.”
Robert Goddard stocks nearly 50 premium clothing brands, including Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Armani.
DEATH OF THE HOOFSTRAAT
It comes as many businesses have been hit by a series of closures.
Bosses at The Body Shop recently announced they will be bringing in administrators as early as next week.
This means a “significant number” of jobs and stores are at risk, and the brand will begin insolvency processes within days.
It is understood the chain – founded by Anita Roddick and her husband Gordon – will appoint FRP Advisory, a measure that will affect around 200 stores. Sky News reports.
Sources claimed there was a strong possibility administrators could close a large number of The Body Shop's UK branches.
The closures come as shoppers have been forced to cut back, while the costs of running stores have also risen.
Figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC) this summer showed that Britain had lost 6,000 stores in a five-year period.
Popular beauty retailer Boots has sadly announced it will close 300 stores this year, following several closures in 2023.
Meanwhile, fashion brand New Look confirmed that 400 branches will be closed.
For more information, The Sun has compiled a full list of the major high street stores that have closed, including Tesco, Clarks and M&S.