The shutdown of a well-known store at a busy downtown intersection suggests that shopping habits might be evolving, according to local workers.
The Urban Outfitters, located at the corner of Oxford and Richmond streets, had been a staple retail location for over ten years.
A notice was placed on the front door on Jan. 23 stating “WE’RE CLOSED FOREVER”. Accompanying it was a message expressing gratitude to the community and directing customers to their Toronto branch.
“I’m not surprised. Downtown is losing its appeal, to say the least, and it only gets busy during the evening,” said Veronica Zager, owner of Legacy Tattoos & Piercings right across the street.
She speculated that a decline in foot traffic, which became noticeable after the pandemic, might be behind the closure.
Urban Outfitters hasn’t provided any comments yet.
Zager noted that more visitors are coming to Richmond Row for dining and nightlife, plus she sees potential for residential development.
“I would like to see these vacant retail spaces turned into living areas,” she said. “Not $5000 a month apartments, but affordable places.”
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Some business owners believe that Urban Outfitters’ closure in London reflects a broader decline in downtown activity. (Alessio Donnini/)
Barbara Maly, executive director of Downtown London, agrees that Urban Outfitters’ exit could signal changing consumer behavior while also presenting new opportunities.
“In 2023 we had 10 businesses close down but welcomed 22 new ones on Richmond Row,” Maly stated. “The shift in spending habits may have contributed to (Urban Outfitters’) closure, but they haven’t clearly explained why.”
Maly suggested it’s time to rethink how main street areas like Richmond Row function and look. This could involve creating spaces with diverse uses such as co-working environments, she added.
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Viphati Vohra works at a nearby shop and mentioned customers often inquire about Urban Outfitters’ closure next door. (Alessio Donnini/)
For Viphati Vohra, who works next door at Fogged Up, losing this store carries cultural significance.
“When you think about downtown London, you usually picture this intersection; Urban Outfitters has always been part of that,” she explained. “When giving directions you’d mention ‘near Urban Outfitters’.”
Both friends and patrons of Vohra’s have shown disappointment regarding the closure while also sharing some ideas about what could replace it.
“I think it would make an excellent location for a bar,” said Vohra. “A vintage-style bar with dark rustic decor and large windows would be fantastic.”
Employees at Urban Outfitters confirmed they were being laid off but were instructed not to talk with media representatives.
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