Asda has confirmed the closing date for its store in Hale Barns, Greater Manchester, as Waitrose prepares to take over the location. The supermarket on Hale Road, which opened just two years ago, will shut its doors on Friday, July 31, 2026.
Background and Transition
The closure of the 11,000 sq ft store was first announced in May 2026. Waitrose will open in the same premises in autumn 2026, though an exact opening date has not yet been confirmed. All Asda staff at the store will transfer across and become Waitrose Partners, with additional roles being created. Staff are currently receiving training ahead of the opening.
Waitrose Expansion Plans
Waitrose Regional Manager David Donovan previously 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." Alun Jones, Waitrose's Head of Physical Estate, added: "Growing our presence in the north is important to us and the Hale Barns store is a significant next step in our plan."
Asda's Statement and Financial Context
An Asda spokesperson thanked the community for their support, stating: "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."
Asda has cut around 7,500 jobs over the past year as it continues efforts to improve its finances, according to the Daily Express. The reductions come as Asda faces interest costs of more than £730 million on the debt built up following its 2021 takeover.
