US clothing retailer GAP Inc is considering closing stores in some European countries amid declining sales caused by the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) and increased competition, Reuters reports.
The company, which has 129 GAP stores in Europe, announced on Tuesday that among the options explored is the possible closure of units in the UK, France, Ireland and Italy, by mid-2021.
As part of the restructuring plan, the company had previously announced plans to close more than 225 unprofitable GAP and Banana Republic stores globally.
However, the online sales of the Old Navy and Athleta brands, owned by GAP Inc, have increased since the beginning of the pandemic.