TG Jones is set to close 19 stores across the UK during September as part of a wider restructuring programme that will result in 150 branches being closed. The retailer, which replaced the traditional high street stores of WH Smith after a sale to investment firm Modella Capital, currently operates around 450 TG Jones shops, mainly in the UK, with about 4,700 employees. The changes follow a restructuring plan approved by the High Court in July.
The September Closures Form Part of a Wider Store Reduction Plan
The September closures affect stores in locations including Bath, Redcar, Redhill, Market Harborough, Uckfield, Cambridge, Swindon, Helston, Deal, Basildon, Rustington, Clevedon, Greenford, Kenilworth, Southend-on-Sea, Exmouth, Frome, Cardigan and Wells.
According to reports, two TG Jones stores closed on 12 September, while others are scheduled to shut throughout the month, with some dates still to be confirmed. The list includes the Cambridge branch, which is due to close on 14 September, and the Frome store, which is scheduled to close on 30 September.
The closures are part of a restructuring plan designed to reduce the size of the retailer’s store network. The plan could lead to hundreds of job losses as branches are removed from the estate.
TG Jones chief executive Alex Willson previously said the approval of the plan allowed the company to continue with its turnaround strategy. He said the restructuring would protect the core of the store estate and help create a more sustainable business. The original WH Smith owner continues to operate stores in locations such as airports, hospitals and railway stations. Those travel-related stores were not included in the rebranding to TG Jones.
Closing-Down Sales Launched as Branches Prepare to Shut
As stores prepare to close, TG Jones has started clearance sales across affected locations, with discounts also available through its website. According to The Resident, customers can buy selected items for as little as £1, with products including gift bags, books and toys included in the sale. The retailer has also announced discounts on a range of online products, including 50% off signed and special edition books, up to 50% off stationery, 20% off LEGO sets and up to 75% off Christmas items.
The sales are intended to clear remaining stock before the affected branches close. TG Jones warned online shoppers that items would not be available once sold. The restructuring follows Modella Capital’s ownership of the chain after purchasing the former WH Smith high street business for £76 million.
According to reports, Modella Capital is also associated with businesses including Hobbycraft and The Original Factory Shop, while it recently acquired Danish homeware brand Flying Tiger.
The September closures represent the next stage of the company’s plan to reduce its high street presence while keeping a smaller network of stores operating. Customers in affected areas have been advised to check individual branch details for final closing dates.
