House of Fraser closes Bluewater branch after 25 years of operation

House of Fraser has permanently closed its Bluewater branch today after 25 years in operation. The store, located in a busy shopping center, offered a 20% discount to customers as a farewell gesture. This closure reduces the number of House of Fraser stores to 28. Despite the closure, House of Fraser's Darlington branch will remain open. The retailer has faced numerous store closures in recent years, with many locations shutting down due to financial struggles. The company was saved from collapse in 2018 but has continued to reduce its footprint. The retail sector has been under pressure, with many stores closing due to rising costs and changing shopping habits. In 2023, over 10,000 shops closed in the UK, reflecting ongoing challenges in the industry.