A major UK department store with 23 locations remaining across the UK is preparing to permanently close the doors on one of its sites. The House of Fraser branch in Worcester city centre is set to shut its doors for good this September. Located on Chapel Walk, the store has now entered its final trading phase, launching a 20% off closing down sale.
Large signs have appeared in the shop windows, alerting shoppers to the upcoming closure and offering discounts on the remaining stock. The announcement appears to have come as a shock to many locals and neighbouring businesses who have just learned about the news.
Kate Fitzer, who works at the Ganesha store nearby, told Worcester News: “I only noticed this morning.
“It’s come as a shock as it’s been there for years and it’s a staple. We tend to hear rumours of what’s in trouble but that was a complete shock.”
Pete Singh, owner of Little Italy Boutique also on Chapel Walk, described the closure as “a big loss” for the area.
He also told the outlet: “It’s absolutely terrible. I think it’s a big loss. It was a place a lot of people would come into Worcester for.”
He added: “It’s going to have a big knock-on effect. It’s really a shame.”
The reasons behind the closure have not been publicly disclosed.
House of Fraser itself has faced difficulties over recent years, having been rescued from administration in 2018 by Frasers Group owner Mike Ashley.
Despite efforts to stabilise the brand, the retailer has steadily scaled back its physical presence in recent years, halving its stores from 59 to 31 by 2023.
The department store chain was founded as a small drapery shop in Glasgow back in 1849 and grew into one of Britain’s most recognised retail names, with locations across the UK.
