Asda has confirmed the closure date for its Hale Barns store in Greater Manchester, as Waitrose prepares to take over the site. The supermarket on Hale Road will shut its doors on Friday, July 31, just two years after opening.
Closure and Transition Details
The 11,000 sq ft Asda branch's closure was first announced in May. Waitrose will launch in the autumn, though an exact opening date has not yet been revealed. Asda employees at the branch will transfer and become Waitrose Partners, with additional positions being created and staff undergoing training for the new store.
Asda's Financial Challenges
Asda has cut approximately 7,500 positions over the past year as it seeks to strengthen its financial position, according to the Daily Express. The cuts come as Asda grapples with interest costs exceeding £730 million on debt accumulated following its 2021 takeover.
Waitrose Expansion Plans
Waitrose Regional Manager David Donovan told Altrincham Today: "Opening in Hale Barns is an exciting opportunity for Waitrose and we'll offer the very best products and customer service for food lovers in the area." Waitrose's Head of Physical Estate, Alun Jones, added: "Growing our presence in the north is important to us and the Hale Barns store is a significant next step in our plan."
Community and Customer Impact
An Asda spokesperson expressed gratitude: "Like all major supermarkets, we regularly review our store estate to ensure it continues to meet customer needs and remains commercially sustainable. We'd like to thank our colleagues and the local community at our Hale Barns store and reassure customers they can continue to access Asda's great value and products at our nearby Altrincham and Wythenshawe superstores, or online at Asda.com."
