Morrisons has announced plans to close 100 of its convenience stores over the coming months, citing significant cost increases resulting from government policy choices and sustained loss-making performance. The supermarket giant, which has been trading since 1899, said the affected Morrisons Daily outlets, typically located on high streets, have been underperforming for years.
The closures are expected to put hundreds of jobs at risk, according to the Retail Gazette. The stores in question were originally acquired as part of Morrisons' £190 million rescue package for McColl's in 2022. Despite efforts to boost trade, the company stated that their performance has remained challenged.
Morrisons highlighted that the situation has been exacerbated by rising costs from government policies, including increases to the national living wage and employer National Insurance contributions. These factors have contributed to the decision to close the outlets.
The exact number of jobs affected and the specific stores involved remain unclear. However, a consultation process regarding the proposed closures is expected to begin shortly. A Morrisons spokesperson confirmed that staff members impacted by the closures could be offered alternative positions within the company.
This announcement follows last year's decision by Morrisons to close 52 cafes and 17 convenience stores. In April, the chain also revealed that approximately 200 positions were under threat at its Bradford headquarters. Currently, there are roughly 1,700 Morrisons Daily outlets across the UK.
Despite the planned closures, Morrisons insists it still has a strong expansion strategy for this year. A government spokesperson described the closures as a commercial decision for Morrisons, adding: 'We understand that this is a concerning time for workers and their families. A broad range of support is available for those affected. Acas can also provide employees and employers with free, impartial advice on workplace rights, rules and best practice.'
In other news, Morrisons recently became the first supermarket to confirm it will remove sharp-pointed kitchen knives from its shelves in an effort to combat knife crime. The retail giant plans to replace conventional knives with versions that cannot pierce skin. Anti-knife charities and campaigners have welcomed these proposals. David Scott, corporate affairs director at Morrisons, said the business would now sell Viners' rounded-tip Assure Collection, stating: 'They're just as effective in the kitchen but reduce the risk of harm.'
