Morrisons is bringing back its meat and fish counters to 13 stores across the UK following significant customer backlash after the supermarket axed 70 such counters last year. The move comes as part of a broader reversal of cost-cutting measures that also saw the closure of 52 cafés, 13 florists, four pharmacies, and all 18 Market Kitchen format branches.
Customer Criticism Prompts Reversal
After facing criticism from shoppers, the retailer announced that its fish and meat counters would return to a selection of stores. A Morrisons spokesperson stated: "Our Market Street counters are part of our DNA. They are at the heart of our offer and a real differentiator for Morrisons." The company has not yet confirmed how many of the original 70 counters will ultimately be reinstated, but five locations have already restored their counters, and eight more are confirmed to follow.
Stores Receiving Counters
The 13 stores confirmed to have or be getting meat and fish counters include: Great Park in Newcastle, Herne Bay, Thornbury, Yeadon in Leeds, Bolton Dawes in Greater Manchester, London Queensbury, Chapel-en-le-Frith, London Enfield, Speke, Bath London Road, Todmorden, St Helens Baxter’s Lane, and Porth. Morrisons is also considering additional locations across the country.
Improved Efficiency and New Features
The retailer noted that lessons learned from the closures have led to improved waste yield over the past year, making the counters more efficient to operate. The updated counters will remain staffed but will feature flatbeds and more grab-and-go options. For pizza counters, Morrisons will introduce more digital ordering screens and offer a wider selection of prepared foods across Market Street.
