A River Island store is closing after two decades at a shopping centre – with a potential replacement already lined up.
The clothing retailer was one of the first to open when Whitefriars in Canterbury launched in 2005.
But now closing-down stickers are on the shop window and its last day of business will be February 17.
Last year, bosses announced it needed to close 33 stores and reduce rents at 71 more shops to avoid going bust within weeks.
In January alone, 27 locations across the country ceased trading.
It has blamed the situation on “a sharp rise in the cost of doing business over the last few years” and the increase in online shopping.
However, it is understood Whitefriars bosses have moved quickly to secure a replacement.
Rumours of Victoria’s Secret, a leading lingerie and beauty trader, moving in have emerged – though an exact opening date is yet to be confirmed.
If all goes to plan, it would be the second in Kent, with one at Bluewater opening in 2014 with much success.
The shopping centre is enjoying an upturn in fortunes since its controversial £155 million acquisition by Canterbury City Council in 2018, and its associated struggles before and during the pandemic.
It has welcomed a host of household names in recent years, including Oliver Bonas, Urban Outfitters and ProCook.
Bosses at River Island, Victoria’s Secret and Whitefriars have been contacted for comment.
River Island was founded in 1948 under the Lewis and Chelsea Girl brand before being renamed in the 1980s.
