British fashion icon closes 32 stores in 2026 as UK jeweller shuts iconic shop

The retailer cited the rise of online shopping and higher operating costs as the main challenges. River Island has 200 shops across the country and employs over 5,000 people. After closing 32 sites, the brand continues to operate in the other UK and Ireland branches, with no further closures confirmed at this stage.

In a statement, the company said: “To all of our loyal and valued customers, I regret to inform you that after over 50 years of trading, Krafft Jewellers will be closing on March 31, 2026. This decision has not been easy, but the trading climate has become so much harder over the past few years. Unfortunately, the advance in online shopping and increasing costs has impacted so many high street businesses, ours included.”

C W Sellors has been trading since 1979 and has 10 shops across the UK, including Whitby, York, Ashbourne, Bakewell, Matlock and Shrewsbury. Lee Causer, from business advisory firm BDO, said earlier this year: “The business has been experiencing challenging trading conditions, with rising overheads and lower demand for its high-end products.”

Chief executive Antony Lindsay said: “CW Sellors is a well-established British jewellery and watch business with strong foundations and a loyal customer base. Our focus now is on developing the business further while preserving the craftsmanship, expertise and customers relationships that have defined the brand for almost half a century.”

Express.co.uk has contacted River Island for comment