Both retailers have confirmed they are shutting a number of locations in London as part of wider restructuring plans.
Fashion retailer River Island will close 33 stores across the UK by the end of January 2026, including branches in Beckton and Surrey Quays.
The closures come as the retailer, which has more than 220 stores and employs around 5,500 people, attempts to avoid administration after falling sales and declining foot traffic.
As part of the plan, River Island will also pay reduced rent at 71 other locations.
Poundland is set to close 14 stores in early 2026, including outlets in Ponders End and Mitcham.
The branches in Ponders End and Kilmarnock will close on Monday, January 5, with the Mitcham store following on Tuesday, January 14.
The chain was taken over by investment firm Gordon Brothers in June and has announced the closure of 68 stores and two warehouses, putting 1,300 jobs at risk.
Its main closure programme concluded in September, with 57 stores shut and 11 more closures put on hold.
The latest closures are due to lease expirations or landlords serving notice.
“Extensive” clearance sales are now underway at the Poundland stores scheduled to close.
The shake-up follows a tough year on the high street.
Retailers including WH Smith and Clare’s have closed all UK stores as inflation and operating costs squeeze consumer spending.
The difficulties continue a challenging period for the high street, with brands like Starbucks, Pizza Hut and New Look also reducing their store networks in 2025.
Many of these closures are linked to broader restructuring efforts, either to avoid administration or to improve financial performance.
