Typo, the Australian stationery and gifting brand, has confirmed it will close all of its remaining UK stores, with its UK online business also set to disappear by early 2027. The retailer, owned by Australian fashion giant Cotton On Group, currently has around 13 stores remaining in the country after a number of locations closed in recent months.
Phased closures begin
The closures will take place in phases, with one of the chain's North East stores at Newcastle's Eldon Square already shutting its doors on Friday, October 9. Typo's remaining shops include a branch at the Metrocentre in Gateshead, although an exact closing date for that location has not yet been announced.
Confirming its withdrawal from the UK market, Cotton On Group said: "After careful consideration, we are closing Typo’s operations in the United Kingdom, with all stores and online trading to close by early 2027.
"We recognise the impact of this decision on our Typo UK team who are already aware of this, and our priority is to support our people through this transition."
Reasons behind the exit
The company pointed to the mounting cost of operating in Britain, as well as weaker sales, as reasons behind the decision. It said: "Despite the efforts of our teams, ongoing high rent and operating costs, combined with softer sales, mean there is no sustainable path today for Typo in the UK."
Typo has enjoyed success in other markets, but its departure will bring an end to its physical presence in Britain as well as its UK online store. Other Cotton On Group brands will, however, continue operating in Britain through online and wholesale channels.
Other brands continue
The company added: "Cotton On, Cotton On Body and Cotton On Kids will continue to operate through online and wholesale channels in the UK, and we remain confident in their long-term growth."
The closure comes after Typo had already begun reducing its UK store estate, with the number of branches gradually falling in recent months. The Eldon Square shop held a closing-down sale before shutting on October 9, while some other locations have reportedly closed with little or no notice.
