Morrisons has confirmed that its Morrisons Daily store on Moorcroft Road in Woodthorpe, York, will permanently close on August 1, 2026. The branch also houses a Post Office counter, which will shut on the same date. The closure is part of a broader strategy by the supermarket chain to shutter around 100 company-owned convenience stores that have been loss-making despite efforts to improve trading.
Background of the Closures
The Morrisons Daily stores were acquired as part of a £190 million rescue deal for McColl’s in 2022. However, the retailer stated that many of these stores have been underperforming financially, with circumstances worsened by significant cost increases resulting from government policy choices, including rises in the national living wage and employer National Insurance contributions. A Morrisons spokesperson said, “We have carefully considered all comments and suggestions received during the consultation period. Unfortunately, there are no viable options to achieve even a break-even position.”
Impact on Employees and Community
Employees affected by the closure may be offered alternative roles at nearby Morrisons Daily or Morrisons supermarket locations, according to the company. The loss of both the store and Post Office has been described as a “real blow” by local Liberal Democrat councillor Stephen Fenton, who represents the Dringhouses and Woodthorpe ward. He stated, “It’s disappointing that Morrisons turned down my request that the store be kept open until a new home – either temporary or permanent – can be found for the Post Office counter. The loss of both the Post Office and the Morrisons store is a real blow for residents who cannot easily access other shops or Post Offices. My thoughts are with the staff team at Morrisons.”
Post Office Replacement Efforts
The Post Office has confirmed that its counter within the store will cease operations on the same date. In a statement, it said, “The provision of a Post Office service to our customers in the local community is important to us, and we will continue to work hard to restore services in the area. We are currently investigating the options available to enable us to reinstate a Post Office service to the local community, this may include the vacancy being advertised on our website www.runapostoffice.co.uk.” Councillor Fenton met with a Post Office representative earlier in June to discuss potential replacement services and has contacted local retailers about hosting a new Post Office counter.
Broader Context
Morrisons operates more than 2,200 stores across the UK. The company emphasized that the closures affect only company-owned stores and not its franchised locations, which continue to expand. The retailer described the closures as part of a “wider strategy to improve the overall performance of the retailer’s convenience store network.” Prior to the closure, notices will be displayed in the store to inform customers of the date and to direct them to the nearest alternative Post Office branch.
