Outdoor clothing specialist Mountain Warehouse is bucking the ongoing trend of store closures with ambitious plans to launch as many as 50 new outlets during the current financial year.
This aggressive expansion comes as the broader retail landscape faces significant headwinds based due to changing consumer habits and businesses struggling with the cost of living.
The company, which operates more than 400 locations, intends to establish fresh sites and relocate existing ones both domestically and internationally.
This growth strategy stands in stark contrast to the wider sector's performance, which analysis from PwC suggests has been struggling in recent years.
Mountain Warehouse is looking to open dozens of new stores
|GETTY
Recent data reveals that Britain's retail industry experienced a net reduction of 3,802 outlets during 2024, with an average of 10 stores disappearing daily across shopping centres, high streets and retail parks.
Despite this trend, Mountain Warehouse achieved revenues of £449.2million for the twelve months ending in February, representing a 16.4 per cent increase.
This performance was partially attributed to the establishment of 65 new locations during that period, despite what the company described as difficult market conditions.
Mark Neale, the company's founder, expressed confidence about future prospects: "I'm proud of the team for delivering another set of record results, despite the challenging retail environment."
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Britons have been concerned about store closures in recent years
| PAHe added: "The strong pipeline of new, larger stores that we have both in the UK and international markets means that we should be knocking on the door of £500million revenue in the current year."
The retailer has concentrated on securing more spacious premises, particularly in out-of-town retail parks, as part of its wider expansion ambitions.
Former Topshop and Wilko properties have been transformed into Mountain Warehouse outlets, enabling the company to display an expanded product selection.
These larger locations are being earmarked as they accommodate specialised departments, including dedicated areas for ski equipment and clothing.
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During the previous financial year, the company established 27 new UK outlets whilst relocating 12 existing stores to better premises.
Mr Neale remarked: "And I actually think we have more opportunities for growth now than at any point I can remember both in the UK and elsewhere, in stores and online."
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The high street has been hit with store closures in recent months | PAPwC's analysis indicates that 12,804 outlets shut their doors throughout last year, averaging 35 daily closures, whilst only 9,002 new stores opened.
Jacqueline Windsor, PwC UK's Head of Retail, suggested cautious optimism exists within the sector, noting potential for growth through technology investment and adapting to shifting consumer patterns.
However, Zelf Hussain, PwC's Restructuring Partner, warned that 2025 presents continued difficulties: "While household finances are improving, consumer confidence remains cautious.
"Additionally, with substantial payroll cost increases and higher business rates taking effect in April, profit margins will remain under pressure, further straining high street retailers."