In-store retail has been struggling for years, but post-pandemic and amid the cost-of-living crisis its demise has only accelerated as overall footfall growth slows and consumers continue to cut spending and search for the best deals online. Physical stores are now a burden. Anyone watching will realise digital is now the key priority for the new landscape, and those companies which fail to invest in their online capabilities will not stand the test of time.

Only by innovating will companies be able to adapt to, and predict, market changes. Recognising a reliance on bricks-and-mortar was unviable in the long-term. Those that rapidly innovate, test and implement will survive and thrive, leaving others by the wayside.