We saw some shock announcements from big names, including Thackerays, TGI Fridays and The Body Shop.
The independent business which sent the biggest shockwaves across the town was Steffans, when they revealed they were shutting down after 48 years.
The jewellers, which did not make this round-up as the business is set to close its doors in Abington Square for the final time in January 2025, will be a big loss to the town centre.
Unfortunately, there were even more business closures this year than in 2023 – as last year’s round-up featured 17 stores.
Take a look at the businesses that sadly closed down in Northampton during 2024…
9. Thackerays – Summer 2024
Clothing store Thackerays, which had been trading in the town since 1972, closed down earlier this summer after being purchased by Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group – which owns several other brands including Sports Direct and House of Fraser. Though it is unknown when exactly the business closed in Wellingborough Road, it did not take long for Flannels to open. Photo: Logan MacLeod
10. Next – August 2024
National clothing store Next closed in the Grosvenor Centre at the start of August, which marked the end of an era for the popular retail chain at this shopping destination. Next took on the unit when House of Fraser closed in 2014, which is around the same time that Primark moved into the shopping centre. After a period of renovations, Next opened in 2015. Photo: National World
11. Playhouse – August 2024
Playhouse, located in the former Revolution site in Bridge Street, announced its town centre closure in mid-August. This came after news broke in June about the uncertain future of the business, following a major restructuring plan by its parent company Revolution Bars Group. The company was facing financial challenges and announced plans to reduce debt by closing unprofitable sites. Photo: Playhouse
12. Grillers Kebab – August 2024
Grillers Kebab, a takeaway in Bridge Street, closed down in August as the road closure saga continued. The owner closed the business and went to work for someone else due to decreased footfall. Bridge Street remained closed after a huge fire at the former Fat Cats building in August 2023, and finally reopened again in September this year. Photo: Google Maps