A Tale of Two Bond Streets - Retailing in Decline

Britain’s high streets have long been the location where buyer meets seller. But recent evidence, well covered in this excellent Independent article, suggests that high street retailing is struggling to overcome a long-term decline. Thousands of traditional and well-known brands are retreating from your local high street, and perhaps they are gone for good? Lots of useful data in the article that would provide a good focus for student discussion. One recent survey suggests that 13% of high street retail locations are now vacant, with an even higher percentage in regions suffering from more significant economic decline. In the last two years alone, the UK has lost 943 building society branches and 452 estate agencies. What is replacing them? Bookmakers? Charity shops?