Morrisons has confirmed the return of its popular Market Street meat and fish counters to some stores after facing significant pushback from customers. The supermarket chain, which operates nearly 500 outlets across the UK, had removed 35 meat and 35 fish counters last year as part of cost-saving measures, replacing them with pre-packed displays. The decision was met with disappointment from loyal shoppers who valued the service of having meat cut and fish filleted by trained staff.
Reversal of Cost-Cutting Measures
The initial closures were part of a broader restructuring that also saw the shutdown of over 50 cafes, around a dozen florists, all Market Kitchen in-store dining concepts, and four pharmacies, as reported by The Grocer. Morrisons chief executive Rami Baitiéh described the closures as a “necessary” step to “renew and reinvigorate” the business, allowing the company to focus investment on areas customers truly value. However, the removal of the counters did not sit well with many regulars, who saw them as a distinctive feature of the Morrisons experience.
In response to customer feedback, Morrisons has now had a change of heart. A spokesperson acknowledged that the counters are part of the brand's “DNA.” The new strategy involves reopening some fish and meat counters with updated features, though other closures such as cafes and florists will not be reversed. The retailer has not yet specified how many of the 70 counters will be reinstated.
Phased Return and New Features
Morrisons revealed its new approach at an annual conference in June, along with plans to modernise the in-house Market Street sub-brand. The returning counters will be staffed to serve customers and will also include flatbeds and pre-prepared products for easy basket selection. The spokesperson told The Grocer: “We have listened to customers and are now planning to reopen a number of these over the coming months.”
The counters are being reintroduced in phases, with some already back in operation at stores in Great Park in Newcastle, Herne Bay, Thornbury in Bradford, and Yeadon in Leeds. More locations are expected to follow in the coming months. The move signals a commitment to preserving the traditional service that has long been a hallmark of the Morrisons brand.
