The COVID Diaries – 102 9th July
Today’s announcement that John Lewis are not reopening eight stores, including their major department stores in Birmingham and Watford, shows just how disastrous the COVID-19 outbreak has been for the High Street.
Birmingham opened less than five years ago and was the retailing jewel in the redevelopment of New Street station, heralded as a major urban renewal initiative. It’s closure has come as a major shock to the city.
The Watford branch had a proud history having originally been Trewin Brothers. When I grew up in nearby Bushey, many of my friends had Saturday jobs working there.
One can’t blame John Lewis for making difficult decisions closing unprofitable stores, but this will be devastating for the viability of the areas affected.