HYDE and Ashton-under-Lyne’s retail sector has been dealt a further blow after Bodycare confirmed both branches will be closing.
The health and beauty retailer is shutting 30 stores around the country after it went into administration.
And Thursday, September 18 will be the outlet at Clarendon Square Shopping Centre’s final day of trading with Monday, September 22 as the last day for the Ashton store.
The decision marks another blow for the town centres, which has seen a number of national names disappear in recent years.
Shoppers have described Bodycare as a convenient and affordable option for everyday toiletries, cosmetics, and household products.
A spokesperson for Bodycare said the closures were “not taken lightly” and confirmed that staff at affected stores were being supported.
The administrators previously said the stores had become too expensive to maintain amidst rising rents, with retailers facing “challenging times”.
Nick Holloway, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “We’d like to express our sincere thanks to the hundreds of dedicated Bodycare staff who have shown such professionalism since our appointment.
“We will continue to trade the remaining 85 stores while we remain in discussions with interested parties with the aim of preserving as much of the business as possible.”