FatFace is to shutter all 23 US stores as the Next -owned fashion and lifestyle retailer adopts a digital-only sales approach in North America while moving its growth focus to the UK and new markets.

Rising costs and economic uncertainty had made the current omnichannel model unviable, according to reports. The US closures will see the loss of 145 jobs.

FatFace will instead continue to invest in its UK stores while expanding into new international markets with an online offer in the coming months.

The retailer has been busy growing its physical presence in the UK having opening three new stores and refurbishing others this year. It trades from 170 stores in the UK and employs around 2,400 staff.

The news came amid reports that FatFace (whose results are usually filed in October) saw

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