Truworths chief executive Michael Mark told analysts last week the group expects to run down leases on between 10 and 15 of its 139-strong UK store estate over the next two years, as part of a turnaround plan to boost sales and profits at the struggling footwear retailer.

In the presentation, Mark also earmarked three “problematic” Office concessions for closure over a two-year timeframe.

He said: “Closure of poor-performing stores remains a priority while enhancing the e-commerce offering to grow sales in a consumer environment trending towards online shopping – footwear is highly conducive to online retailing.”