Reading’s shopping scene has very much fallen victim to the “death of the high street” saga.

Here are some of the shops we said goodbye to in 2023.

Wilko

The hardware and furnishings retailer tumbled into administration earlier this year after it came under pressure from weak consumer spending and debts to suppliers.

Previously located in the Broad Street Mall in Reading town centre, customers said they are disappointed to see the closure of one of the high streets most renowned discount stores.

Sally Beauty

After a lengthy year of closures of many of Reading’s shops, Broad Street Mall said goodbye to another long-time resident.

After previous confusion that Sally Beauty may have just been getting a new ‘makeover,’ its closure was confirmed.

Both staff from Broad Street Mall and Sally Beauty’s customer service confirmed that the store is indeed closing for good and will not be returning to the centre of Reading.

House of Fraser

The flagship department store opened with The Oracle in 1999, nearly 25 years ago and has survived two recessions and a global pandemic but then announced its closure.

Team member Emily said: “It is really sad, and I feel bad for the people who have worked here for 20 years. They’ve offered some of us placements in other companies under The Fraser Group.”

Another member of staff Sky said: “I do feel really bad for those who were with the store for 20 years, some started work before you even needed a CV.”

Next Beauty & Home

Next Beauty & Home occupied the old Debenhams department store in The Oracle shopping centre since December 2020.

Next announced its closure date after around three years in the shopping centre.

A spokesperson for Next said: “We can confirm that our NEXT Beauty & Home store in Reading will cease trade on Saturday, August 12.”

C&G Hardware

C&G Hardware, located on School Road, was opened by renowned Tilehurst business owners Corinne and Geffrey Folley in April 2004.

After announcing its closure, the business owners and community expressed huge sadness as the shop prepared to leave Tilehurst.

C&G Hardware co-owner Geffrey said: “We’ve been part of the village for the last 20 years and it will be very sad to say goodbye to all our customers.