Greggs has announced the temporary closure of 11 stores across the UK for two days, as the country experiences an extreme heatwave. The bakery chain cited the need to protect customers and colleagues during the severe hot weather. The closures affect outlets in London, the Midlands, and southern England, including Barnet, Leicester Square, Wantage, Aldridge, Wolverhampton, Luton, Trowbridge, Marlborough, Dudley, Northampton, and Gosport.
Met Office Issues Red Warning for Extreme Heat
The closures come as the Met Office issued a Red warning for extreme heat on Friday, marking the first time in the history of the current weather warning system that red warnings have been issued for extreme heat for three consecutive days in the UK. The warning covers areas in central and western parts of England and Wales, where temperatures could exceed 36C, possibly reaching 37C in some locations.
Andy Page, a Met Office Chief Meteorologist, said: “This exceptional spell of hot and humid weather will maintain its grip on the UK for a little longer. Although the current red warning for areas in more central and western parts of England and Wales will expire later today, the heatwave will still be bringing high temperatures to these areas, albeit moving away from the peak heat of Wednesday and Thursday. We are expecting that some daytime maximum temperatures could exceed 36C, perhaps rising to 37C in some locations.”
Full List of Greggs Stores Closed
Greggs informed customers via email that the following shops would be temporarily closed on Wednesday 24th and Thursday 25th June: Barnet, Leicester Square, Wantage, Aldridge, Wolverhampton, Luton, Trowbridge, Marlborough, Dudley, Northampton, and Gosport. The chain urged customers to check for updates on reopening as the heatwave subsides.
Impact of the Heatwave
The extreme heat has prompted other businesses and public services to take precautions, with many advising people to stay indoors and stay hydrated. The Met Office's red warning indicates a high risk of heat-related illnesses and disruption to travel and infrastructure. Greggs' decision to close stores reflects growing concerns for staff and customer safety during the unprecedented hot weather.
