Concerns are rising about the future of Hull’s retail scene as shops continue to close
Hull: People really love shopping in person, but it’s getting tough out there. In 2024, shops across the UK are closing at a crazy rate. Readers on Hull Live are saying it’s harder than ever to keep a store open these days, and they think we should cherish the ones we have left.
According to the Centre for Retail Research, over 13,000 shops shut down last year. Independent stores, the little gems with just one or a few locations, are hit the hardest. Even big chains aren’t safe; when a brand like Homebase goes under, it can mean a lot of job losses and a big impact on the community.
There are a bunch of reasons for this decline. More folks are shopping online instead of hitting the High Street. Plus, costs are skyrocketing—rent, business rates, energy bills, and inflation are all eating into profits.
On Facebook, people are sharing their worries and hopes for local shopping. One commenter, Chris Tuck, pointed out how tough it is for small businesses to keep going, especially in city centers. He mentioned that high costs and low disposable income are a recipe for disaster.
Sharon Louise Wade chimed in, saying it’s sad because people still want to shop in town. But if there are only a few stores left, who wants to go? She did notice that St Stephen’s was busy when she visited, which gave her a bit of hope.
Roy Doughty prefers shopping in person. He and his wife recently bought a sofa at St Andrews Quay and loved the experience. He likes having a salesperson to help him choose and to see the fabrics in person. Buying online just doesn’t cut it for him.
Antony Sheppard thinks the change is here to stay. He believes High Street shopping will continue but in a different, smaller way. He mostly shops online now, except for food, drink, and clothes, which he likes to try on first.
Jerome Tether agrees that online shopping is the way to go. It’s cheaper and easier, and every year, more people are moving away from the High Street. He worries about what this means for the economy.
Looney Clunes has an idea to help keep shops open. He suggests that stores should adopt European hours, opening later and closing around 8 or 9 PM. He finds it frustrating that shops close so early, leaving him with no choice but to shop online.
What do you think? How would you change retail and shopping in Hull and the UK? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation!
