Douglas River Island unaffected by store closures

The owner of the local River Island store has confirmed that the Douglas outlet is not part of a planned closure programme involving 33 UK stores, announced by the company.

Stephen Bradley, who operates the franchise here told Manx Radio the business continues to trade well.

River Island in the UK recorded a £33 million loss in 2023 and has blamed the rise of online shopping and the increased cost of running stores for the decision. The company says it's seeking rent reductions from landlords of a further 71 stores. 

River Island was founded in 1948 under the Lewis and Chelsea Girl brand before being renamed in the 1980s.