THE flagship Nike store at Gloucester Quays is set to close.
Nike, one of three key stores at the Quays along with Next and Marks & Spencer, will shut its doors on May 31 and 14 jobs will be lost.
The store, which sells trainers and sportswear is one of the most popular at the outlet.
Barry Leach, of the Gloucester City Centre Community Partnership, said: "This has come as a great surprise because I thought it was doing very well.
"It is disappointing for those who work there and it leaves a big hole at the Quays."
Ryan Fortey, manager of nearby Head Kandy at the Docks, is remaining positive.
He said: "Losing Nike is not good. But we have got the cinema and the restaurants on their way, plus Nandos is having a refit, that will bring loads of people in. Shops come and go.
"I am sure all the empty units will be filled within 12 months."
Richard Robbins, from Lydney, did some of his Christmas shopping at the Nike shop. He said: "I'll definitely be sad to see it go. The Quays will have a job on their hands to replace it."
Meanwhile, a spokesman for Nike said: "The Nike Factory Store at Gloucester Quays will close on May 31.
"The store currently employs 14 members of staff. Where loss of employment occurs as a result of the closure, Nike will appropriately manage and support our employees."
Gloucester Quays failed to comment.
