Morrisons has revealed a significant plan to close 52 in-store cafés, 17 convenience stores, and various specialist services throughout the UK. The announcement, made on March 24, threatens 365 jobs as CEO Rami Baitieh aims to transform the supermarket chain’s future.
The closures will affect locations across England, Scotland, and Wales. In addition to cafés, all 18 Market Kitchens, 13 florists, 35 meat counters, 35 fish counters, and 4 pharmacies will be shut down.
Key affected sites include:
- London: Queensbury, Erith, Wood Green, Stratford, Sidcup
- Leeds: Swinnow Road, Horsforth
- West Yorkshire: Bradford, Elland
- Scotland: Paisley, Bellshill, East Kilbride, Glasgow, Helensburgh
- Wales: Caernarfon, Connah’s Quay, Brecon
- Other locations: Gloucester, High Wycombe, Leighton Buzzard, Mansfield, Bromsgrove, Great Park in Tyne and Wear
Seventeen convenience stores will also close, including branches in Peebles, Stewarton, Poole, Romsey, Tonbridge, Wokingham, Exeter, Bath, Selsdon (London), Woking (Surrey), and various locations in Devon, Somerset, Kent, and Essex.
CEO Rami Baitieh commented on the changes, stating, “The changes we are announcing today are a necessary part of our plans to renew and reinvigorate Morrisons and enable us to focus our investment into the areas that customers really value and that can play a full part in our growth.”
While 365 jobs are at risk, Morrisons has assured that the majority of affected employees will be redeployed within the company.
This round of cuts follows last year’s reduction of over 200 head office roles in recruitment, payroll, and employee engagement. The UK grocery market remains highly competitive, with rivals Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Aldi all working to reduce costs and expand their reach.
Retail analyst Clive Black from Shore Capital said, “Morrisons is taking decisive, if difficult, steps to streamline operations in line with modern consumer demands. While closures are painful, this could pave the way for more strategic reinvestment.”
Trade unions have urged Morrisons to ensure fair treatment and re-employment opportunities for staff affected by the closures. Consultations between affected employees and management are ongoing as the company explores alternative roles wherever possible.
Originally published by UKNIP.
