Arts and crafts retailer Hobbycraft has announced it will close at least nine stores across the UK by mid-July, in a restructuring move that could impact up to 126 jobs.
Other big-name retailers have also announced store shutdowns:
- Poundland is set to close three more locations in Liverpool, Kent and London.
- Morrisons recently shut over a dozen stores, citing rising national insurance and minimum wage costs.
- WHSmith, JD Sports, Sports Direct, and New Look have also confirmed branch closures this year.
Modella Capital, which also owns The Original Factory Shop and recently acquired WHSmith’s high street business, said the restructuring was aimed at safeguarding at least 99 stores and 1,800 jobs across the Hobbycraft brand.
What’s Next?
Affected staff are reportedly being offered support, and discussions are ongoing regarding possible redeployment or redundancy terms. The retailer said it will keep customers updated on any further closures or changes.
Customers and staff alike have expressed disappointment over the closures, particularly in communities where Hobbycraft stores have become creative hubs.
For now, Hobbycraft’s online services and remaining physical branches will continue to operate as normal.
Is your local store affected? Visit hobbycraft.co.uk/store-finder for the latest updates.
