With Covid and the cost of living crisis, the past nine months have not been plain-sailing for businesses.
For some, high costs brought on by record inflation have been the final straw.
But for others, the decision to close has been driven by personal circumstances.
While Southampton has seen the opening of several new restaurants, shops, cafés, bars, and pubs this year, the city has also had to say goodbye to a number of long-standing businesses which had served the community for years.
Here are some of the shops that have disappeared from the high street in 2022:
Cotton Bakery in Bitterne Park
Owner, Graham Cotton, announced the closure of the bakery after nearly 50 years.
The 78-year-old said he would retire due to ill health but also the cost of living crisis.
Speaking to the Echo, Graham said: "I’ve been pushing my limit for too long, and in today's climate it was what I had to do."
READ MORE: Southampton's Cotton Bakery closes down after nearly 50 years
The Little Fryer in Bitterne
This fish and chip restaurant was popular among residents and is owned by single mum of two Deirdra Cranny.
The 50-year-old first threw open the doors to her shop in December 2007, just before Christmas, but was forced to shut up shop this month.
It comes as the store struggled to make ends meet due to rising costs.
READ MORE: Southampton fish and chip shop closes in cost of living crisis
Rice Up Wholefoods in Hanover Buildings
This independent shop turned to the public for help after energy bills skyrocketed.
The store launched a fundraiser to help pay for staff and other expenses and raised nearly £12,000.
However, the efforts were not enough, and the store was forced to close at the end of August.
READ MORE: Southampton food shop Rice Up hit with monthly electricity bills of £2,500
Odeon
The closure of the Odeon cinema after more than 20 years came as a shock.
A vital part of Southampton's entertainment scene, the cinema screened its last film in February this year.
The site will be re-developed into 650 homes, two 150-room hotels and 80 serviced hotel apartments, along with restaurants, offices and a new cinema.
READ MORE: Odeon closes at Southampton's Leisure World
Kemptons of Bitterne
Mick and Audrey Kempton opened this butcher shop nearly 16 years ago.
The independent shop, known for its variety of fresh meat and pastries, has announced its departure.
The couple who worked side by side all these years will close the shop next month and move to Cyprus, where they have bought a new home.
READ MORE: Southampton butcher's shop closes after 16 years
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