High-street giant Marks and Spencer has confirmed it will close 32 stores in town centres, as it has seen a shift in consumer behaviour.
The move comes as the retailer saw an increase in online shopping during the pandemic which had "increased the imperative" to reduce their trading space.
It will see the chain plan for 15 new stores and 40 food outlets over the next three years.
M&S said it has made the decision to close stores in town centres as the locations have "lost impetus" due to numerous factors, including Brexit, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and government and local town authority.
It is the latest blow for the high-street post-pandemic, as major iconic stores such as Debenhams, Dorothy Perkins and Topshop completely close their doors.
The BBC reports that the chain plans to move many stores that are currently located in older, multi-floor buildings with poor car parking and access.
Some of these stores will be moved to more modern and well located sites confirms the retailer. However, some of the planned stores will be permanently closed.
The chain has said the shift from town centre chains comes about due to what they say is "failed local authority and government policy."
It follows the retailer's decision to close a total of 68 mainline stores, with M&S' Sauchiehall Street branch in Glasgow permanently closing its doors after 100 years of trading in April.
M&S boss Steve Rowe said that the move is being made as they are "moving with the customer, where the customer is working and shopping".
The retailer saw a 55.6% surge in online sales for their clothing and home operation, but in store sales fell by 11.2%.
By contrast, their food sales continued to prove popular with shoppers, as it grew by 10.1%.
Due to the ongoing cost of living crisis and 'consumer uncertainty', M&S have said that they expect sales to possibly further slow down.
M&S have not yet confirmed which 32 stores will be closed and relocated as part of their plans.
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