UK High Street Faces Surge in Shop Closures Amid Rising Business Costs

Accelerated rate of shop closures in 2025
Accelerated rate of shop closures in 2025

The UK's high streets are bracing for an accelerated rate of shop closures in 2025, driven by escalating business expenses introduced in the latest government budget. A report from PwC highlights that increased costs, including a higher National Living Wage, employer National Insurance contributions, and business rates, are rendering marginal retail and hospitality locations financially unviable.