Chemist and pharmacy chain Boots has announced nearly 300 UK store closures, with additional closures planned in the coming weeks. Since its establishment in Nottingham in 1849, Boots has been integral to British life.
Walgreens Boots Alliance, the parent company, disclosed in June last year a plan to close 650 stores to achieve £618 million in savings.
At the beginning of this year, Boots had roughly 2,200 branches. By September, 290 of them had closed, although the last quarter saw a rise in sales.
An additional ten stores are scheduled to close by the end of October, but Boots has not yet provided a list of the affected locations. The company noted that most closures occurred in areas where another store was nearby.
The systematic destruction of the ‘High Street’: Boots to shut 300 shops by end of summer – full list of stores hit. You won’t need the ‘High Street’ with a 15-minute ‘city’ and the Internet. https://t.co/rQrViRpl6c pic.twitter.com/4c8zIQSlhb
— David Icke (@davidicke) July 24, 2024
Boots is not an isolated case. Numerous high-street giants have either closed hundreds of stores in recent years or disappeared entirely.
Experts suggest the decline of the high street has been ongoing for decades. The emergence of out-of-town retail parks in the 1970s and the surge in online shopping have contributed significantly.
Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the cost of living crisis have further pressured retailers into making tough choices.
In the first half of this year, 6,945 shops have permanently closed their doors.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Express.co.uk reported that Boots’ closures reflect a strategic shift amid challenging sales, aiming to concentrate resources where needed. While beneficial for business, local communities face significant disruptions and loss of access. (Read more)
- Mirror.co.uk reported that the impending closure of nearly 300 Boots stores raises concerns about accessibility. Despite claims of nearby alternatives, many loyal customers will feel the impact of these significant changes. (Read more)
- Metro.co.uk considers the move as indicative of the ongoing struggles in retail. While sales have risen, the closures underscore a troubling trend for high-street pharmacies. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is Boots closing stores?
Boots is closing stores to save £618 million.
How many Boots stores have closed so far?
By September, 290 Boots stores had closed.
When did Boots start closing its stores?
Boots announced its closures in June last year.
Are there more Boots store closures expected?
Yes, ten more stores are expected to shut by the end of October.
What factors are contributing to high street store closures?
Brexit, Covid-19, and the cost of living crisis are major factors.
