After a four-year absence, the iconic American retailer Gap has officially marked its brick-and-mortar comeback, completing the Gap UK High Street Return. The brand opened its new two-story, 3,250-square-foot flagship store at 30-31 Long Acre in Covent Garden, London, on November 7, 2025. This highly anticipated reopening signals a renewed investment in physical retail following Gap’s decision to close all 81 of its UK stores in 2021 to focus on a digital-first strategy.
The successful Gap UK High Street Return is powered by a joint venture with UK retailer Next Plc, combining Gap’s global brand power with Next’s logistics expertise. The new Covent Garden store is designed to spotlight the brand’s heritage categories denim, khakis, and fleece in a brighter, modern concept inspired by Gap’s original New York concept store. The space also includes cultural elements, such as a curated vinyl selection, aiming to connect with younger consumers.
This London flagship is the first of three standalone stores scheduled to open before the end of the year. Gap will follow up with new locations at Westfield White City in early December, and a Gap Outlet store opening in Wembley Park later that month. Mark Breitbard, President and CEO of Gap, expressed his excitement at returning to the iconic Covent Garden address.
The Gap UK High Street Return strategy confirms a shift in focus from online-only to a full omnichannel experience. By relaunching its physical presence, Gap hopes to rebuild brand relevance and give shoppers the crucial opportunity to try on its core denim and apparel, providing a necessary in-person connection in the competitive UK retail market.
