UK’s ‘biggest outdoor store’ with 93 locations to abruptly shut branch in hours as shoppers say ‘it’s been on the cards’

THE UK's biggest outdoor store with 93 locations will close one of its branches in just hours.

Go Outdoors in Old Abingdon Road, Oxford, will shut for the final time later today.

The retail chain sells everything from camping gear to fishing and ski-ing equipment and has 93 locations across the UK.

Notice of the Oxford store closure is posted on the company website.

It states that customers with a members card can get an extra 20% off everything in-store today.

Local news outlet the reports that the store is closing due to the building being in a "state of disrepair".

Due to this, the company has been unable to get insurance to "work safely".

A spokesperson for Go Outdoors said that the company "intends to invest in a new and improved store."

Until new premises are found the closest outlet to Oxford will the its Swindon store.

Shoppers have been reacting to the news online with many of them shocked at the sudden closure.

One person said: "Been shopping there for years, I have a membership and this is news to me."

Another added: "What a shame I always get my camping gas from them, not sure where to get it now."

While a third commented: "So sad to see it go, it has been there for years and is the best place to get everything you need."

However, others are less surprised as one person said on Twitter: "It's been on the cards for a long time."

The Sun has approached Go Outdoors for comment.

It comes as many other retailers are closing their doors for good as people think twice about what they spend their cash on.

The cost of living crisis, high inflation and energy costs are all taking their toll on businesses.

Retailers including Poundland, New Look and Homebase are among those pulling the shutters down on locations for the final time this month.

Even big names such as Marks and Spencer and Boots are shutting up shop in towns up and down the country.

Boots announced earlier in the year plans to reduce the number of stores it has from 2,200 to 1,900.

A number of branches have already closed in locations including Flintshire in Wales, Leicester, York, Plymouth and Exeter.

Marks and Spencer has also been shaking up and leaving some locals furious with its decision to shut down certain stores.

The popular retailer revealed that it would permanently shut ten of its stores and relocate more shops this year.

It is part of its plans to create more flagship M&S stores and food halls across the UK.

What about store openings?

It is not all doom and gloom for shoppers as some retailers are looking to expand.

Asda has just announced this week it will be opening 34 new stores before Christmas.

Also a big surprise for the high street came in the form of Wilko's making a return.

Two new concept stores opened up in Plymouth and Exeter just last week, and another is set to open in Luton on December 7.

Also, since taking over some of the ex-Wilko stores, Poundland has opened up 71 locations, giving shoppers more chances to grab a bargain before Christmas.

Meanwhile, for shoppers who like buying in bulk, it is also good news as Costco has plans to open 14 more warehouses in the UK over the next two years.