A significant number of Morrisons supermarket stores and cafes are set to close across the UK, impacting hundreds of jobs, with Welsh branches on the list. The closures are part of Morrisons’ cost-cutting plan, which includes shutting down 52 cafes and 17 convenience stores. The cafes in Brecon Free Street, Caernarfon North Road, and Connah’s Quay are among those that will permanently close their doors, with around 365 staff members facing potential redundancy.
Including several in-store services, a total of four pharmacies, 13 florists, 18 market kitchens, 35 meat counters, and 35 fish counters will also be closed as part of the restructuring plan. This move comes as Morrisons looks to concentrate on more profitable areas of the business amid heightened competition, particularly from discount chains like Aldi, which overtook Morrisons as the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket in 2022. The changes are expected to be implemented over the next few months.
Rami Baitiéh, the chief executive of Morrisons, shared that these changes are crucial for revitalising and enhancing the supermarket chain, enabling a focus on investments in customer-centric areas for sustainable growth. Baitiéh acknowledged the disruption and uncertainty these changes may cause to employees, ensuring that all affected staff members will be supported well throughout the transition. While some employees may be redeployed within the business, others may face redundancy.
Although Morrisons Cafes are well-known for their quality food offerings and community appeal, some locations face local challenges, making closure the most viable option for those specific branches. Market Street, a key feature of Morrisons stores, will remain a priority for the chain, but adjustments to the model are necessary to enhance economic viability. In certain locations where counters or cafes are closing, Morrisons plans to collaborate with third parties to provide specialised offerings to customers.
The closure of Morrisons cafes and other services reflects the company’s commitment to strategic renewal and growth, ensuring a sustainable future for the business amidst evolving market dynamics. While these changes may represent a small portion of Morrisons’ overall operations, the company is dedicated to supporting employees through the upcoming transitions and changes. Morrisons aims to enhance the customer experience and focus on areas that align with consumer preferences and business sustainability.
The closure list includes cafes and convenience stores spread across various locations in the UK, with three Welsh branches affected. Among the affected Morrisons Daily stores are those in Gorleston, Peebles, Shenfield, Poole, Tonbridge, and Romsey. Market Kitchen counters slated for closure include those in locations like Aberdeen, London, Nottingham, Milton Keynes, Cheltenham, Basingstoke, Brentford, and Verwood. Florists and pharmacies in multiple regions are also part of the closure plan.
In conclusion, Morrisons’ decision to close certain stores, cafes, and in-store services is driven by the need to adapt to changing market dynamics and enhance profitability. The company’s focus on strategic renewal and investment in customer-centric areas highlights its commitment to sustainable growth and operational efficiency. As Morrisons navigates these changes, supporting affected employees and ensuring a seamless transition remains a key priority for the supermarket chain.