SOUTHAMPTON'S Disney store, popular with children and adults alike has closed its doors for the final time after 26 years of trading.

The Disney Store in the Marlands Centre closed permanently last Wednesday and was today seen with its shutters down.

Daily Echo:

A spokesperson for Marlands Shopping on Civic Centre Road confirmed the closure.

They said: "After 26 years of serving shoppers in The Marlands, we are disappointed to see the Disney Store cease trading at the end of their lease in June of this year. 

"One of the longest serving stores in the centre, we understand this closure is part of planned review by Disney of the number of their physical stores across Europe, following a similar review in North America, acknowledging the shift in their shopper behaviour for certain types of purchases to their on-line platforms.

"Our letting agents are actively seeking a new occupier for this space since Disney informed us of their decision, and we hope to be able to make an announcement regarding this shortly.

"It goes without saying that our thoughts are primarily with the team employed at the store and we very much wish the management and staff of the Disney Store all the best in their future endeavours."

The Daily Echo has contacted Disney Stores UK for confirmation but has not yet received a response. 

A post on Disney's website reads: "We constantly evaluate our Disney Stores to ensure we’re in the right sites to be able to provide Magical experiences for our Guests.

"As a result, we are creating new Disney destinations with various retail partners but we may close some existing Stores.

"You'll still be able to shop in our other Disney Stores and online."