I just read from the other thread that there is apparently some discussion about recent legislation, and it was hinted that some UK producers are considering closing their stores?

I hope it's ok to the mods if I created a separate thread that focuses on the consumer perspective about this recent development.

As a consumer without access to the store owner subforum, I am concerned about this news. Is it just "talk" at this point or are people really throwing in the towel because of recent legislation changes? How widespread is this going to be? I'm seeing 3 separate threads of producers talking about imminent store closing, and it's really sad when we have just 1 of this development, but 3?

There's no UK-specific issue of which I am aware. It's US tax rules being enforced on US and non-US producers.
Overall, sales are way down. Furthermore, those who purchase customs are spending significantly less while requiring more for the small fee. That's one thing if you have a crappy video of a girl getting pied by her girlfriend or just taking a shower with her clothes on filmed by a GoPro. OTOH, if people want quality video properly lit that costs money. Adding actors costs money. A two girl 2 pie each video is not $200 made-to-order.

Piracy is another factor (not you in particular, just in general) in reducing sales.
It all comes down to severe economic pressure on producers to the point that the tax hassle is the last straw.

It's European tax rules. There's a big thread in this forum somewhere.