Hobbycraft, the UK’s well-known arts and crafts retailer, is undergoing a major shift in its store network. The company has confirmed that nine additional branches will close between August and September 2025.
This move follows a challenging year in which over 100 stores have already ceased trading. While closures can be disappointing for customers, the decision is part of a wider restructuring strategy aimed at protecting the future of the brand.
For many communities, these stores are more than just shops, they are creative hubs, making this news a significant moment for both shoppers and employees.
Why Is Hobbycraft Closing Nine More UK Stores?
Hobbycraft’s leadership has explained that the closures are a result of tough market conditions and the need to secure the business’s long-term stability.
Rising operational costs, shifting shopping habits, and increased competition from online retailers have placed pressure on physical locations. The company’s restructuring plan is designed to protect the remaining stores and jobs.
Key factors influencing the closures include:
- Declining in-store sales compared to online performance
- Higher overhead costs, including rent and utilities
- Broader economic pressures affecting UK retail
- Need to focus resources on more profitable sites
While these decisions are difficult, they are seen as necessary to keep the brand competitive and ensure it continues to serve its nationwide customer base.
Which Hobbycraft Stores Are Closing in August and September 2025?
The latest announcement affects stores spread across several UK towns and cities. Three branches have already closed in early August, with six more expected to shut in September.
The closures are part of a scheduled wave that follows months of business review and location performance assessments.
List of Hobbycraft Store Closures
| Location | Closure Date | Notes |
| Bromborough | 4 August 2025 | Already closed |
| Stratford-upon-Avon | 6 August 2025 | Already closed |
| Southport | 7 August 2025 | Already closed |
| Wigan | Early September | Clearance sale ongoing |
| Stafford | September 2025 | Clearance sale ongoing |
| Maidenhead | September 2025 | Exact date to be confirmed |
| King’s Lynn | September 2025 | Exact date to be confirmed |
| Chichester | September 2025 | Exact date to be confirmed |
| Crayford | September 2025 | Exact date to be confirmed |
These closures mark a significant shift in Hobbycraft’s physical retail presence across the UK. Customers are advised to check local store notices and the official website for final closure dates and clearance sale details.
How Many Hobbycraft Stores Have Already Closed This Year?
In addition to the nine current closures, Hobbycraft has already seen over 100 stores close in 2025. Many of these closures took place in July, affecting locations across England, including Bagshot, Basildon, Borehamwood, Bristol, Canterbury, Cirencester, Dunstable, Epping Forest, and Lakeside.
Notable points:
- The closures have been staggered to manage operational changes
- Some sites were closed due to unrenewed leases
- Lower-performing stores were prioritised for shutdown
These changes form part of a broader restructuring aimed at keeping at least 99 locations open nationwide, supported by investment from its parent company.
What Discounts and Sales Are Being Offered Before Closures?
As part of the closing process, several affected branches have launched clearance events. These sales offer significant discounts on remaining stock, with reductions reaching up to 20% on a wide range of crafting products.
This has attracted bargain hunters as well as loyal customers looking to make final purchases from their local store.
Examples of current offers include:
- 20% off general craft supplies
- Reductions on seasonal items and kits
- Discounts on bulk purchases of yarn and fabrics
- Special offers on display items and fixtures
These clearance sales not only help move unsold inventory but also provide shoppers with the chance to stock up before the stores close for good. For many, it is also a final opportunity to enjoy the in-person Hobbycraft shopping experience.
How Will the Store Closures Affect Hobbycraft Employees?
The closures are expected to impact both store-based staff and some roles at the company’s headquarters and distribution facilities. While exact job loss figures for this latest round are not confirmed, previous closure waves have affected between 72 and 126 positions.
Potential impacts on staff include:
- Redundancies where relocation is not possible
- Opportunities for transfer to nearby branches
- Support programmes for affected employees
The company has expressed regret over the job losses and emphasised that closing stores is a last resort. Efforts are being made to retain as many positions as possible, with a focus on securing the long-term employment of staff in remaining locations.
Is the UK High Street Crisis Behind Hobbycraft’s Store Shutdowns?
The closures cannot be viewed in isolation, they form part of a much wider problem impacting UK high streets. Over the past decade, shopping districts have undergone major change, with independent stores and large retail chains alike struggling to adapt.
Shoppers are increasingly turning to online platforms for convenience and competitive pricing, which has led to reduced footfall and declining in-store sales for many businesses.
Wider Impact of Retail Chain Closures Across the UK
High street retailers in the UK are under unprecedented strain due to shifting consumer habits, rising operating costs, and broader economic uncertainty. This pressure has forced many household names to either downsize significantly or close entirely.
For some communities, these closures mean the loss of vital services, local employment, and a sense of community connection.
Key contributing factors:
- Increased reliance on online shopping and home delivery
- Rising commercial rents and business rates
- Declining foot traffic in town and city centres
- Higher costs of utilities and staffing
Statistics on High Street Decline
The scale of the issue is reflected in industry research, showing a steady increase in the number of retail closures.
UK Retail Closure Statistics:
| Year | Number of Shops Closed | Notes |
| 2024 | 13,479 | Across multiple retail categories |
| 2025 | Estimated 17,000 | Projected based on current trends |
These figures demonstrate why even established and well-regarded brands like Hobbycraft must make difficult choices to adapt to a rapidly changing retail environment.
What Are Hobbycraft’s Future Plans After the Closures?
Despite the current wave of closures, Hobbycraft has outlined a clear plan to sustain its position as a leading UK arts and crafts retailer.
The strategy is centred on maintaining strong-performing locations while enhancing the customer experience through targeted investment. At least 99 stores will continue to trade, backed by 1,800 protected jobs.
The company’s future vision also includes expanding its online platform to reach customers in areas without a physical branch. This will involve improved delivery options, exclusive online product ranges, and virtual crafting workshops.
By balancing physical retail with digital growth, Hobbycraft hopes to adapt to changing market conditions while keeping its brand relevant and accessible.
How Will This Impact Customers Who Rely on Physical Hobbycraft Stores?
For shoppers who have relied on the same Hobbycraft branch for years, the closures will mark the end of a familiar routine.
Visiting a store for inspiration, browsing new products, and attending craft workshops is a valued part of the experience that cannot be fully replicated online.
Potential impacts include:
- Limited in-person customer service for complex projects
- Loss of a local hub for crafting communities
- Need to plan purchases further ahead to allow for delivery times
- Reduced exposure to new or seasonal items in-store displays
The company’s online store aims to fill some of these gaps with expanded ranges and faster delivery, but many customers will still miss the personal touch of their local branch.
Conclusion
The decision to close nine more Hobbycraft stores in 2025 is a reflection of the challenges facing both the company and the wider UK retail sector. While the closures will have an impact on staff and customers, the restructuring aims to protect the majority of stores and jobs.
As high streets continue to evolve, Hobbycraft’s focus on combining strong physical locations with online growth will be central to its survival and future success.
FAQs About Hobbycraft Stores Closing
How many Hobbycraft locations will remain after September 2025?
At least 99 stores are expected to remain open following the September closures. The company has confirmed its commitment to maintaining these branches.
Will Hobbycraft continue operating its online store?
Yes, the online store will remain active and is expected to play an even bigger role for customers affected by closures.
Can customers still return items after a store has closed?
Returns will still be possible through other nearby stores or via postal services, depending on the product and return policy.
Is Hobbycraft planning to open any new stores in the future?
While the focus is currently on consolidation, new store openings may be considered in profitable locations in the future.
Will clearance discounts go beyond 20%?
In some cases, further reductions may be offered closer to the final closure date to clear remaining stock.
How is Hobbycraft competing with online craft retailers?
The company is enhancing its website, offering exclusive online deals, and improving delivery services to remain competitive.
Are other craft retail chains in the UK facing similar problems?
Yes, many craft and hobby retailers are experiencing similar challenges due to changing shopping habits and economic pressures.
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