Gap is to close all of its stores in the UK and Ireland, the American fashion retailer has announced.

The decision comes after a review of its operations across Europe and will see the company go online-only in the markets affected.

The stores will shut in a phased manner from the end of August through to the end of September this year.

“In the United Kingdom and Europe, we are going to maintain our Gap online business,” said a statement.

“The e-commerce business continues to grow and we want to meet our customers where they are shopping. We’re becoming a digital first business and we’re looking for a partner to help drive our online business.

“However, due to market dynamics in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, we shared with our team today that we are proposing to close all company-operated Gap Specialty and Gap Outlet stores in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland in a phased manner from the end of August through the end of September 2021.

“We are thoughtfully moving through the consultation process with our European team, and we will provide support and transition assistance for our colleagues as we look to wind down stores.”

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