Shop Numbers Return to Growth After Years of Decline, Say Experts Recent data shows that over 13 new retail stores opened each week across England and Wales over the past year, marking a welcome respite from years of decline.
This modest growth is a much needed boost for the beleaguered retail sector. However, this positive news must be tempered by the grim reality on the ground.
More than 6,000 retail premises have vanished from local communities over the past five years, leaving behind empty storefronts and shattered dreams.