How Wales' shopping centres can survive with values 'absolutely murdered' and top chains disappearing The UK retail sector is undergoing a seismic change and nowhere is that more visible than in its dormant shopping centres. Could a model based around residential and leisure be their salvation? 16:23, 14 FEB 2021 Updated Inside Newport's Friars Walk shopping centre. The closure of non-essential shops has been bruising for centres throughout the UK (Image: Matthew Horwood) On 2 December last year Debenhams' website crashed amid surging demand, with massive queues reported at its Oxford Street shop in London. As shoppers jostled to grab cut-price deals on designer handbags, perfume and scarves, it was a sad irony that the increased popularity was due to a 'blowout' sale marking the end of the 200-year-old brand as we know it.