Sports Direct will be closing its store located at the White Rose Shopping Centre in Rhyl this winter. A concerned shopper has initiated an online petition in an attempt to prevent the closure.
The closure of the Rhyl branch is scheduled for October, as per information provided to shoppers. Sports Direct, a sports chain with approximately 500 stores in the UK, is under the ownership of Frasers Group, established by retail tycoon Mike Ashley.
Amy Jones, a shopper, has launched a petition on Change.org advocating for the retention of the Sports Direct store in Rhyl. She emphasized the store’s significance beyond retail, highlighting its role in providing employment opportunities and supporting local sports enthusiasts. Jones expressed concerns about the adverse impact the closure would have on the local economy and community well-being.
In response to the closure news, comments on Facebook expressed apprehension about further closures in Rhyl, with one individual remarking that the town may soon become deserted. Previous store closures by Sports Direct include locations in Cambridge, Coventry, Stroud, and High Wycombe.
Additionally, Poundland has disclosed plans to permanently close 25 stores in August. The discount retailer, acquired by investment firm Gordon Brothers, is amidst a significant restructuring process that involves shutting down a total of 68 branches. Poundland has already closed several stores, with more closures expected by mid-October.
Furthermore, Poundland announced the closure of distribution centers in Darton, South Yorkshire, and Bilston, West Midlands, in early 2026. These strategic moves aim to streamline operations and optimize the store network, reducing the overall store count to between 650 and 700 from the current 800 stores.