Questions about the future of Newport’s Sports Direct store have been raised after shoppers noticed large ‘closing down’ signs appear in its windows this week.
Those heading through the town caught the first glimpse of the large yellow signs several days ago prompting concerns that the store – which is used by many Islanders to purchase sporting and gym equipment – may close for good.
Sports Direct has been a key feature of Newport for well over 10 years, with its owner sparking controversy by suggesting that the stores may reopen during the national lockdown, claiming that the chain was an essential retailer.
Now though, concern has been shared by both individuals and parents who use the store for essential school items such as football boots and shin pads as to whether their choice supplier will be remaining on the Island.
Despite the signs stating that the store is set to close down, further signs inside the store have suggested that the move is actually part of a ‘relocation sale’. Island Echo understands that plans are in place for the branch to move to either the former Peacocks or the former Ponden Homes stores.
It’s thought that the move is to allow the current store to be refurbished, with plans to then relocate the branch back to its original setting when the works are complete.
Island Echo has approached the national retailer for a statement.
UPDATE 23/8/21: As first alluded to by Island Echo, Sports Direct has confirmed its intention to relocate to a temporary store as refurbishment takes place.
A spokesperson said:
“Sports Direct Newport, will be closing for a period of time whilst is undergoes a refurbishment – the store will be reopening Winter 21/22. During this time there will be a temporary store opening on South Street also.”
printed poster to look like a hand drawn sign, the ‘o’s are in the same font…sports direct would still trade even after armegeddon..
Horrible shop. Horrible owner.
I’d be surprised if a shop like this didn’t do well on the Island. To think we once used to have quality shops like Dabells, Hillstores, , Fowlers. Packs, and then latterly BHS, sadly good quality shops no longer do well here.
Those shops have gone because they had no appeal to anybody under the age of 70
There’s plenty of people over 70 here so you’d think those kind of shops could still thrive.
No idea why my previous reply was deleted. Anyhow, moving on, I don’t believe that all young people have trashy tastes, so it can’t be just that, and those shops didn’t just sell fashion and even among that, they had clothes that would appeal to younger people. It’s more that the whole of the Island has gone downmarket, probably because of the demographic.
Where will all the Chav’s get their uniforms from??..
“yellow” signs? [adds pointless characters to get around IE’s useless bot]
Oh no, where will I get my trackie bottoms and dirty trainers now, No more wetherspoons for me.