I was reminded of some images I took some 10 years ago. Images to illustrate a feature on ‘Empty Shops’…….. The article was addressing the situation that was changing in our High Streets and Shopping Centres.
It was claimed a mix of issues were resulting in the increasing number of empty units, even on high footfall areas. High rates, On-Line Shopping, High Parking Charges, poor transport. There were also other ‘social’ issues that deterred shoppers..
The article did suggest that at least Charities were benefitting. Empty units were being let to try to avoid those ‘blank’ shop fronts. Preferential rents on short term leases, sometimes free sites for restricted periods. Yep, Charity Shops took advantage of these opportunities….. to the extent that they became regular features of High Street and Centres.
Charities competing for trade, even rubbing shoulders with each other. Seemed to be a success, a solution that helped the High Street, other Shops and of course the shopper.
Over the intervening 10 years, the High Streets continued to decline. Covid came along and added to the stress and I guess many retailers still haven’t recovered. The ‘To Let’ Signs and blank windows have increased…
It may well have helped in the short term in an attempt to keep the High Street alive…. now hear that many of the Charity Shops are now closing down,… so I guess the lifeline has now gone.
It all just begs the question what next?
Habits Change… sometimes permanently, some times mourned, sometime creating new opportunities… as we pondered….
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
3rd April
(C) David Oakes 2025
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 
Sadly so
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Not a situation that is showing signs of improving
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Unfortunately not, especially with the present incumbent of the White House
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yes, this is true, sometimes better, sometimes worse
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Sadly for the most part worse.
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Unfortunately, this is happening in my area as well. We just get over the loss of one store and then hear that another one is closing. You are not alone.
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not sure where it ends… not everyone shops on line, and as for big shopping malls they too seem to be suffering from empty outlets and constant change amongst the rest, change maybe because of failures.?
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Few malls left and you’re right about not all of us wanting to shop on line. I’m so happy there are still a few Barnes & Nobels around, since most of the independent bookstores in my area are closed. But it seems as if every month some shop is shutting down. It’s such a terrible loss for everyone and leaves us vulnerable, without choices, and that…is very dangerous.
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Far too many empty store fronts here too. Another store just closed in our area this past month. It frustrates me because I am not a big online shopper nor do I want to be one. I like to see and feel the item I am purchasing or try on shoes and clothes so I don’t have to return them if they don’t suit or fit.
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Maybe wecare going to be left behind.. not sure what retails future is
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