Gap shutting all stores in UK and Ireland

Gap is closing its stores in the UK and Ireland, and this information was revealed this week. The American apparel chain wants to save on costs, so it will shift to online selling in Europe.

As per Reuters, Gap is planning to close down its Gap Specialty and Gap Outlet stores across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. If things go as planned, the closures will take place in September.

Gap in talks to sell outlets

In any case, since it is shutting its physical store locations, it was reported that Gap is also in talks with companies for possible sale. It was mentioned that it is currently in discussions with Hermione People and Brands, the retail unit of the FIB Group, for a possible takeover of its retail outlets in France. Additionally, it was said that there is another partner that is in talks to buy the stores in Italy.

Gap made the decision to shut its stores in the said regions as the company competes with other popular labels, including H&M and Zara. The American apparel company wants its market share as well, but the competition is tough.

The difficulty level is even higher due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis just heightened the troubles because of low sales in brick-and-mortar stores. Gap is actually not the only company affected but many more labels around the world.

Store closures and loss of jobs

The Guardian reported that at least 81 stores are affected by the closures of Gap stores, and this will result in loss of jobs as well. It was estimated that more than 1,000 staff might go jobless soon as the company plans to move the selling online.

The shutting of the stores is expected to be completed by the end of September. While this is not good news for some employees, this is a strategic move for Gap. With the closures, the company will be relieved of the expenses that go to lease and other operating costs.

“We believe in Gap’s global brand power. We are executing against Gap’s power plan and partnering to amplify our global reach,” Gap said in a statement. “Through a strategic review begun last fall of our Gap European business, we conducted a thorough evaluation of each market and potential partners.”