Gap announces more store closures

Worldwide American retailer Gap seems to be closing a high amount of stores and this leaves us only asking one question – why? Gap is famously known for its apparel and basics; it was once the “go-to” for all our wardrobe needs. However, the brand has announced they will be closing around 175 stores in North America, with over half of this number closing this year.

The closure of Gap’s stores will result in many jobs being lost, both for those who work in the stores and at Gap headquarters.  The style of normcore which Gap evokes seems to be a main trend that all fashion retailers are now working with – from Zara releasing a unisex range to most, if not all, retailers offering a wide range of basic apparel. It therefore seems that Gap’s USP has now been adopted and adapted by other stores. So have they lost their spark?

Gap has had many iconic collaborations that some may not have even heard of. For example, Gap collaborated with Pierre Hardy in 2009 to release limited-edition navy, beige and khaki shearling-lined boots, and worked with Valentino in 2010 to create a khaki skirt, celebrating the store opening in Italy.

It is clear the fashion market is ever growing and becomes more and more competitive each day. However for the moment, we are yet to see what happens for the future of Gap.

Ramnique Thiara