With House of Fraser entering administration, Debenhams announcing the closure of up to 50 stores and accessories chain Claire’s rumoured to be following suit, the UK’s high streets are under increasing pressure.
Indeed, this year has seen the greatest number of store closures since Woolworths collapsed a decade ago, with 1,500 retail units left empty.
But this does not tell the whole story. Some areas of retail are performing strongly: the major supermarkets’ increased emphasis on convenience stores is a response to our changing shopping habits; and retail parks that offer large-format stores, affordable rents, free car parking, click & collect and a compelling mix of retail and leisure still make attractive long-term investments.
Conygar Investment Company PLC (LON:CIC) is an AIM quoted property investment and development group dealing primarily in UK property. The group aims to invest in property assets where they can add significant value using their property management, development and transaction structuring skills.
