A SPORTS outlet with “shockingly low prices” has closed its doors forever today.
The high street brand is to shut its outlet department in Birchwood, Warrington.
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New Balance was originally launched six years ago as a marketplace stocking tens of thousands of end-of-season sport items.
But the store in Birchwood Shopping Centre is now closing permanently – leaving dozens of shoppers gutted.
Shopping Centre Manager John Magee confirmed the closure and said the popular outlet was a huge part of the shopping centre.
Mr Magee told the Warrington Guardian: “We can confirm that New Balance will close their doors here at Birchwood Shopping Centre this week.”
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“The team has been part of our Birchwood family for many years – we are sad to see them go and wish them the very best.”
New Balance first opened in the shopping centre in December 2017, after relocating from Birchwood Park.
It joined stores including Asda, Blue Inc, New Look, Sports Direct, Birchwood Carpets and Edith Higham Florists.
Dozens of savvy customers used to flock to the store to buy shoes and clothing at “shockingly” discounted rates.
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The branch gained thousands of positives reviews from people praising the “friendly” staff.
One explained: “Shockingly low prices and very friendly staff hidden in the middle of nowhere, but definitely worth the drive.”
“The prices were excellent, cheaper than online. Well worth the trip. Recommend to anyone looking for quality shoes,” another added.
Despite the store being small, shoppers said it housed a large range of items.
One said: “Pretty good range considering it’s just a small outlet. Good reductions over standard prices.”
Another added: “Decent selection of sport and fashion footwear and sport clothing.”
Managers said they are now looking for a new brand to take the lease and move into the empty unit.
“Our leasing team is always working hard to attract new and exciting brands to Birchwood Shopping Centre and we hope to announce some of our new openings in the coming months,” Mr Magee said.
It comes as Iceland, Wetherspoons, Wilko and Boots are among the major brands set to shut shops in October.
Some stores will be replaced with brand new shops while others will disappear from the high street forever.
The cost of living crisis, soaring inflation and high energy costs are taking their toll on retailers.
Elsewhere, ASOS was to shut its outlet department which stocks tens of thousands of third-party products at discounted rates.
The move puts 15 jobs at risk of redundancy but ASOS said that it is committed to redeploying affected staff into other roles.
The service was originally launched back in 2008 as a marketplace to sell end-of-season products with reductions of up to 70%.
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