The imminent closure of Nottingham’s Ted Baker store on Bridlesmith Gate further reinforces the challenges faced by city centre retail and the need for investment, says East Midlands Chamber. The store is one of 11 across the country set to close by 19th April after the brand entered administration last month.
East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Chris Hobson said: “The Ted Baker store has been a familiar part of Bridlesmith Gate for a number of years so it’s sad to hear its doors are to soon close, especially in a city centre with so much growth potential. The announcement is a reminder of the challenges faced by the retail sector, however, new and fledgling businesses with their sights on a traditional high street presence shouldn’t be discouraged – where possible businesses should wholeheartedly embrace digital technology and the wide customer base it provides, so that huge online market can be complementary to their bricks and mortar offering.
“It’s also a timely reminder that the public and private sector must work together to support the development and modernisation needed to pull people into the city centre to work, study and live. Getting the city centre where it needs to be so that people enjoy leisure time alongside their work life is within reach, but continued investment and following through on plans is critical.”
