High street shopping giant to close 33 stores across the country

A number of River Island stores are closing down (Image: Getty Images)

A well-known high street retailer is set to close a number of its stores across the UK. River Island has announced that 33 shops will shut by the end of January as part of a comprehensive restructuring scheme approved by the High Court to safeguard the brand's future.

The sweeping changes will result in 33 of its more than 200 outlets closing in the opening month of next year, with rent cuts negotiated for 71 locations and substantial debt being cleared. However, River Island enthusiasts can take comfort in knowing that 122 shops will remain unaffected by the reorganisation.

The retailer, recognised for its clothing and fashion accessories, has previously acknowledged difficulties stemming from the rise of ultr