Gap’s stores are closing – can Kanye West turn its fortunes around?

US chain built on large global presence signals retreat from high streets and signs rapper to reinvigorate its brand

Gap was a high street megastar in the 90s, with British shoppers lining up to buy into its American casual wear dream of logoed hoodies and jeans.

These days the mighty US retailer is in retreat, with the group confirming this week that a quarter of its remaining UK stores will close next month, leaving about 50, amid a review of its European operation.