Regatta, the renowned outdoor clothing retailer, is shuttering yet another outlet, decreasing the count of its 60-strong UK portfolio. The unfortunate Dundee store being the latest casualty has left shoppers voicing their dismay on social media.
It comes as a number of retailers have closed down high street stores across the UK, including; Sports Direct, JD Sports, New Look, Select and WHSmith.
A “closing down sale” notice appeared on the entrance of the Regatta outlet at Dundee’s Overgate Centre, a mere two years post its grand opening in the city. This store had taken over the space from Oasis on the ground floor back in 2022 but has kept mum about the reasons for its departure, as reported by The Sun.
To date, there hasn’t been an official word on when the doors will permanently close.
Regatta is one of the go-to brands for all things ‘outdoors’ with a range of products including; waterproof and breathable jackets, fleeces, trousers, footwear and camping equipment for men, women and children. The brand had already turned down the shutters on another location last year, specifically in Chatham, Kent. As per The Sun, February 3, 2024, saw the Dockside Outlet Centre branch closing for good.
Regatta representatives, whose gear is synonymous with adventures al fresco, explained to the press: “Regatta did not take the decision to close the store at Chatham’s Dockside Outlet Centre lightly”, reports the Express. They elaborated that the decision stemmed from dwindling customer visits coupled with the lease expiration.
Online community members expressed their disappointment over the loss, lamenting the trend of store closures. One individual remarked, “There won’t be anything left here soon,” while another forecasted more imminent shutdowns stating, “Many more units will be closing soon.” Commentary continued with a simple “Another one bites the dust” and a forthright, disappointed claim: “Shame!”.
It comes after WHSmith announced it is selling its 480 high street stores to investment firm and Hobbycraft owner Modella Capital, in a deal worth £76million. The stores will be rebranded as TGJones – meaning the WHSmith name will disappear after 233 years from town centres.
But the retailer will still have its more profitable travel locations, so shops in airports and train stations. These will remain open and will continue to operate under the WHSmith brand.
WHSmith has been quietly closing non-profitable stores in recent months, including in Woolwich, Basingstoke, Winton, Rhyl, and Bolton. The chain is also set to close at least another six stores over the next three months, including in Newport and Haverhill, which will shut later in April
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