With UK retail sales in permanent decline for the first quarter of 2017, Britain's high streets are facing an uphill battle.
Stores see more consumers turning to the internet for their shopping trips, with UK shoppers now spending more online per household than consumers in any other country. They also see new players entering the game with Amazon announcing its foray into the convenience sector, revealing plans for a next-generation grocery shop. The traditional bricks and mortar store now faces assaults on all fronts.