The closures form part of a commercial viability review of stores nationwide, the chain announced in a statement released today.

Jessops has yet to publicly reveal the locations of the shops that will be hit.

The retailer said: ‘In early 2013 there are 15 stores that do not meet the required level of viability and so, unfortunately, these stores will close.

‘Jessops will work with the colleagues at these stores to ensure that, wherever possible, they are offered roles elsewhere in the company.’

The high street remains ‘an important part’ of the chain’s ‘multi-channel strategy’, added the statement.

Jessops says it will notify existing customers, by email, to explain where they can find their nearest outlet, in light of the closures.

A spokesperson told AP that Jessops will only announce details of the stores to be shut, at the time the closures take place.

Meanwhile, Jessops has confirmed that 10 more shops will adopt the company’s ‘live black store format’ in 2013.