M&S has confirmed the closure of a major city centre store. The store, situated on Oxford Street in the heart of the Swansea city centre, has served as a major attraction for shoppers for decades but the retailer has revealed that, following prolonged under-performance, the decision has been taken to shut it.

The outlet currently has around 92 employees, all of whom were informed of the closure on Tuesday morning, reports WalesOnline. Staff will now enter consultation regarding possible future positions at alternative M&S locations, whilst the firm has yet to confirm any details concerning redundancies at this point.

A precise closure date for the shop hasn't been finalised, but it's anticipated to occur later in 2026. Richard Owen, M&S regional manager, said: "Customer shopping habits are changing, and as part of our UK-wide store rotation programme, we're adapting our store estate to ensure we have the right stores with the right space to deliver an excellent shopping experience.

"The Swansea store has been a key part of the community for many decades. Unfortunately, it is not viable to keep the store open as the building faces practical and operational issues requiring significant investment, the store has underperformed over a long period and we must prioritise long-term growth decisions."

M&S has maintained a presence in the heart of Swansea for over a century, and the retailer has not dismissed the possibility of establishing itself at alternative premises in the future.

Mr Owen added: "We know this will be disappointing for customers, and our priority is supporting colleagues through consultation, including finding alternative roles at nearby stores wherever possible.

"We will continue serving Swansea customers through those stores and online, whilst we actively look for a suitable location for a future full-line M&S store in Swansea."

The announcement will spark renewed concerns about high street commerce in Swansea city centre, given M&S occupies such a substantial retail space along the principal shopping corridor.

Swansea Council has voiced its dismay at the development, with a spokesman stating on Tuesday: "The news from M&S is extremely disappointing for staff and shoppers.

"M&S confirmed late yesterday afternoon that the current building and location is no longer suitable for their business model which has already seen 90 historic locations close and investment in new store locations

"We've spent several years actively working to prevent M&S closing at this location. We will continue working in the coming weeks and months to seek a new site that meets their needs and keeps M&S in the city.

"M&S recognises the significant Swansea regeneration which is under way and they stated they remain committed to exploring options for an alternative store location in the city.

"M&S has been very clear that this decision is not a reflection on Swansea as a retail destination, but forms part of its wider national strategy. We remain determined to ensure the city centre continues to grow and attract major brands.

"Our immediate thoughts are with the M&S staff, and we are committed to supporting them through this period of uncertainty."