High Street Chain Closes 88 Stores and Affects Thousands of Jobs

A major High Street chain is set to close 88 stores by 2026, part of a larger effort to streamline operations and reduce costs.

Djamila Lazri

Published on

October 11, 2025

Read : 5 min

Carnaby Street London — Credit: Canva | en.Econostrum.info - United Kingdom

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One of the UK’s largest cancer charities has announced that it will close 88 High Street stores by May 2026, marking the first stage of a significant transformation in its retail operations. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce its network of around 600 High Street outlets by nearly half.

According to Gloucestershire Live, the closures are primarily driven by rising operational costs, inflation, and changes in consumer shopping behavior. Additionally, the charity plans to close 100 more stores by April 2027, affecting approximately 600 staff and up to 3,000 volunteers. Despite the closures, Cancer Research UK remains committed to supporting those impacted and to ensuring the sustainability of its work.

The Economic Pressures Behind the High Street Store Closures

Cancer Research UK’s decision to close a significant number of its High Street stores is largely driven by economic pressures. Rising national insurance contributions, increasing inflation, and changing consumer habits have made it difficult for many High Street outlets to remain financially viable. The charity acknowledged the challenges of keeping smaller retail operations afloat in the current economic climate.

As Michelle Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, stated:

“Without action, many of our shops would struggle to remain viable. By focusing on a smaller, more efficient retail operation, we can enhance our funding for life-saving cancer research and better serve our customers, staff, and volunteers.”

This acknowledgment reflects the need for strategic changes to adapt to rising costs, shifting consumer preferences, and an increasingly digital shopping environment.

The charity is also halting its online marketplace in 2026, which further reflects its shift in focus. Although these changes are necessary, they still come with significant ramifications for local communities that rely on charity shops as affordable retail spaces and community hubs. In response to this, Cancer Research UK has introduced an interactive map where shoppers can check if their local store is one of those earmarked for closure.

The Impact on Staff, Volunteers, and Communities

The store closures will impact a wide range of people, from the charity’s employees to its volunteers. Around 600 staff members are at risk of losing their jobs, while approximately 3,000 volunteers may see their roles affected. The charity has reassured both staff and volunteers that it will provide clear information and assistance during this transition, including helping them find alternative positions within the organization or new job opportunities. As Michelle Mitchell noted,

“Our commitment to supporting everyone affected during this transition remains a top priority, and we will provide clear information and assistance throughout the process.”

Beyond the workforce, the closure of these High Street stores will impact local communities, where many Cancer Research UK shops are vital in raising funds for cancer research. The charity’s retail operations have long been an essential part of its fundraising efforts, and the loss of these stores may reduce available funds. However, the charity’s decision to focus on larger, more efficient superstores is intended to offset some of this loss, ensuring continued support for the fight against cancer.

A New Chapter: The Opening of Superstores

Despite closing many High Street stores, Cancer Research UK is pivoting to larger retail spaces with the opening of 12 new superstores by 2028. These stores, which are typically four times the size of their High Street counterparts, will be situated in retail parks rather than traditional High Streets. Currently, the charity operates about 46 superstores across the UK. These larger stores are expected to generate more revenue, which is essential for funding life-saving cancer research.

The strategy behind these superstores is clear: by focusing on larger, more efficient stores, Cancer Research UK aims to ensure the long-term viability of its retail operations while continuing to support its core mission. This shift also reflects broader trends within the retail sector, where smaller High Street shops are struggling to keep up with modern shopping behaviors, especially with the rise of e-commerce.

As Michelle Mitchell explained,

“We understand that this news may be difficult, and we have made these decisions with careful consideration. Our commitment to supporting everyone affected during this transition remains a top priority, and we will provide clear information and assistance throughout the process.”