Habitat to close remaining stores by 2025

Habitat to close all remaining UK stores except flagship

Sainsbury’s has announced it will be closing its remaining 11 Habitat stores across the UK as the brand moves solely online — apart from its flagship store in London.

The supermarket giant, which acquired the homeware retailer in 2016, has already closed several branches over the last few years. However, now all remaining stores outside of London will shut their doors by the end of 2025.

The decision follows Sainsbury’s strategy to integrate Habitat into its wider supermarket offering, which has seen the homeware brand become available in select Sainsbury’s supermarkets and Argos stores, as well as online.

The Tottenham Court Road flagship will remain open.

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “Following a review of our Habitat store estate, we have made the difficult decision to close our remaining standalone stores by the end of 2025, apart from our flagship store in Tottenham Court Road.

“We know this is upsetting news for our colleagues and we are doing everything we can to find alternative roles within Sainsbury’s. Customers can continue to shop the much-loved Habitat brand online and in an increasing number of our Argos and Sainsbury’s stores.”

The move comes at a tough time for the high street, as consumers continue to switch to online shopping and the cost of living crisis takes its toll.

The decision is expected to impact around 150 jobs. Sainsbury’s says it will try to find alternative roles for those affected.

Habitat’s focus on its digital offering means the brand continues to sell the same furniture and homeware items on the Habitat website, alongside Sainsbury’s own homeware brand.

Customers who prefer shopping in-store will be able to find a selection of items in Argos and Habitat concessions in some Sainsbury's supermarkets.