Morrisons to shut 103 outlets including cafes, florists and pharmacies in major restructure

"Supermarket giant Morrisons will close 103 outlets across the UK this year - including cafés, florists, pharmacies and convenience stores - in its latest effort to streamline operations and refocus investment on core areas of growth. The closures form part of a broad restructuring strategy to "accelerate growth" and "optimise operations", following mounting cost pressures and what chief executive Rami Baitiéh called "significant cost headwinds" since last year's Autumn Budget."

"The company has confirmed that 50 Morrisons cafés will close nationwide, alongside 17 Daily convenience stores, 13 florists, four pharmacies, and all 18 Market Kitchens, its in-store restaurant concept launched to offer freshly prepared meals. In addition, 35 meat counters and 35 fish counters are also expected to shut as part of the overhaul. The exact closure dates for the Market Kitchens will be announced later this year."

Morrisons will close 103 outlets across the UK this year, including 50 cafés, 17 Daily convenience stores, 13 florists, four pharmacies and all 18 Market Kitchens. An additional 35 meat counters and 35 fish counters are expected to shut as part of the overhaul. The measures aim to streamline operations, reallocate space where sites face local challenges, and refocus investment on core growth areas customers value. The company reported a pre-tax profit of £2.1 billion for the year to October 2024 after prior losses, but continues to face higher energy and staffing costs plus new regulatory and tax burdens. Plans include seeking third-party partnerships to maintain local services in some locations.

Read at Business Matters