Crewe's River Island branch has been spared from a wave of store closures, despite some national reports suggesting otherwise.

The fashion chain is planning to close 33 of its 230 outlets by by January 2026, after sales slid by almost 20 percent in 2023.

It will also be reducing rents at 71 other locations across the country.

Fortunately, River Island's store on Grand Junction Retail Park in Crewe is not among those set to be closed.

River Island is planning to close 33 of its 230 outlets by by January 2026, after sales slid by almost 20 percent in 2023 (Ryan Parker).

Northwich and Hanley are among the nearby locations closing next year.

CEO of River Island, Ben Lewis, said: "River Island is a much-loved retailer, with a decades-long history on the British high street.

"However the well-documented migration of shoppers from the high street to online has left the business with a large portfolio of stores that is no longer aligned to our customers' needs.

"The sharp rise in the cost of doing business over the last few years has only added to the financial burden.

"We have a clear strategy to transform the business to ensure its long-term viability.

Crewe's River Island will remain open, with nearby Northwich and Hanley locations closing next year (Ryan Parker).

"Recent improvements in our fashion offer and in-store shopping experience are already showing very positive results, but it is only with a restructuring plan that we will be able to see this strategy through and secure River Island's future as a profitable retail business.

"We regret any job losses as a result of store closures, and we will try to keep these to a minimum."

READ MORE: Crewe town centre business submits licence for supply of alcohol.

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