New Look is closing a popular branch after 15 years on the high street. The Corby store, which has been a staple of the Willow Place shopping centre for 15 years, will close its doors on June 1. This comes following the closing of three other stores last month including one in Cornwall, Gateshead and Preston. 

The retailer has not yet said how many staff members will be affected by the store closure. The ongoing store closures reflect a broader trend in the sector, with many high street chains re-evaluating their physical presence due to rising costs, and the impact of online shopping. 

A spokesperson from New Look said: "Our Corby store is set to close on 1 June. We would like to thank all of our colleagues and the local community for their support over the years.

"We hope customers continue to shop with us online at newlook.com, where our full product ranges can be found.”

Meanwhile, WH Smith announced that the entire chain has been sold in a £76 million deal. The future of individual stores remains uncertain, but all will initially be re-branded to TGJones."

Locals have shared their reactions on Facebook with one person saying: "The town centre has nothing to offer for anyone wanting to buy clothing apart from primark! The cost of the rents isn't helping either."

Someone else commented: "So sad for the town centre". Another added: "Sad. I feel sorry for the employees who now have to find other employment."

The first shop to close in 2025 was the Wickford branch in Essex, which also closed after 15 years. 

The retailer's Irish branch entered liquidation, meaning that almost all of its stores will be closing down and leading the loss of  about 350 jobs. 

Concerning the store closures, a New Look spokesperson previously said: "Our store estate is an important part of our business, alongside our best-in-class website and app.

"We have recently invested over £3million in our stores in Greater Manchester to trial new omnichannel initiatives to improve customer experience. We also continue to invest in our thriving online platform which has resulted in a strong online sales performance, with volumes significantly outpacing last year and an improved online margin.

"On occasion we do have to close stores, either due to the landlord’s request or because the site becomes unviable. However, we always remain on the lookout for appropriate new opportunities across the country and continue to invest in our existing store estate."