UK high street chain to close all stores forever this week

A popular chain of hardware stores is closing down all of its branches for good in just days, in the latest blow to the high street. Cooper's has locations across Norfolk and Suffolk, with a head office in Worlingham, near Beccles.

In a notice on its website, the chain says all of its branches will permanently cease trading at 3pm on Saturday, October 18. Coopers had previously announced the move, blaming the "economy and spiralling bills", as per the East Anglian Daily Times.

Cooper's said a 50% sale is now on an encouraged shoppers to come down to their local before it shuts.

Little other information has been put out about the reason for the closure.

It's also not known whether the business intends to continue its online operations.

The chain has stores in:

• Beccles
• Bungay
• Halesworth
• Harleston
• Leiston
• Framlingham

Staff at the Bungay branch said in a statement on social media: "Firstly, I would like to thank every customer who has stepped foot through the door over the years.

"The banter, the laughs and all the support keeping those doors open for so many years, we thank every single one of you, and we will miss serving this lovely little town.

"Saturday at 3pm will be the last time I lock the door and walk away from what feels like our second home."

It comes as various high street stalwarts grapple with increased costs due to rising energy bills, rent, National Insurance contributions, and wages.