Morrisons Announces Closure of 145 Sites Nationwide
Morrisons will close 145 locations across the UK, including 17 Morrisons Daily convenience stores and 52 in-store cafes, as part of a significant business restructuring. This change is intended to optimize operations and better utilize space in stores that are not performing well.
Most closures of the Daily stores have already happened, with further shutdowns planned for additional cafes, Market Kitchens, pharmacies, and florists by the year’s end.
Reason Behind the Closures
Chief Executive Rami Baitieh highlighted that the decision was difficult but necessary to keep pace with evolving market demands.
“In most locations, the Morrisons Cafe has a bright future, but a minority have specific local challenges and in those locations, regrettably, closure and reallocation of the space is the only sensible option.”
Baitieh emphasized the importance of Market Street as a unique feature of Morrisons, though some adjustments are needed where certain sections have become unprofitable.
“Market Street is a beacon of differentiation for Morrisons and we remain committed to it. But as we modernise, we are making some necessary changes to the areas of the model which are simply uneconomic."
He also mentioned plans to collaborate with third parties to offer specialized services in stores where counters or cafes are closing.
Summary
As Morrisons tackles market challenges, it is streamlining its store portfolio by closing less profitable units while focusing on modernizing and partnering to maintain key customer services.
Author's note: Morrisons is reshaping its retail footprint to stay competitive, closing underperforming sites and enhancing in-store services through partnerships.