Introduction
MORRISONS, one of the UK’s leading supermarket chains, has announced a significant restructuring plan that will see a series of closures across its stores. The decision comes as part of the supermarket’s strategy to streamline operations and focus on its core business.
The planned closures are extensive, affecting a range of services and sections within the stores, including cafes, pharmacies, market kitchens, convenience stores, florists, and meat and fish counters. This move has sparked concern among employees and customers alike, as it could impact local communities and jobs.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of the closures, the reasons behind them, and what it could mean for shoppers and staff.
Morrisons Cafes: 52 Locations to Close
Morrisons has confirmed that 52 of its in-store cafes will be shut down. These cafes have long been a popular spot for customers to enjoy a coffee or a quick meal while shopping.
Many of the cafes were seen as an added convenience for shoppers, offering sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks. However, changing shopping habits, coupled with rising operational costs, have led to the decision to close these locations.
Impact on Customers:
- Reduced in-store dining options.
- Some shoppers may need to find alternative cafes nearby.
- Potentially shorter queues and more space in the main supermarket areas.
Impact on Staff:
- Staff working in the cafes may face redundancy or relocation.
- Training and redeployment programs may be offered by Morrisons to affected employees.
Market Kitchens: All 18 to Shut
Morrisons operates 18 market kitchens that provide freshly prepared meals, including ready-to-eat dinners, salads, and bakery items. Unfortunately, all of these kitchens are set to close.
The market kitchens have been popular with customers looking for fresh and convenient meal options. However, competition from meal delivery services and other supermarkets offering pre-prepared meals has impacted their profitability.
Impact on Customers:
- Limited access to fresh, in-store prepared meals.
- Customers may turn to third-party meal services.
Impact on Staff:
- Chefs and kitchen staff may be redeployed or face job losses.
- Some employees could transition to other departments within Morrisons.
Morrisons Daily Convenience Stores: 17 Locations Closing
The closure plan also affects 17 Morrisons Daily convenience stores, which are smaller outlets focusing on quick shopping trips and essential items.
These stores are often located in urban areas or residential neighborhoods. The closures may affect convenience shopping for local communities.
Impact on Customers:
- Reduced access to nearby grocery options.
- Some customers may need to travel further for daily essentials.
Impact on Staff:
- Staff in these convenience stores may be reassigned to other locations.
- Redundancies could occur depending on local store operations.
Florists: 13 Locations Closing
Morrisons operates in-store florists in many of its supermarkets. The closure of 13 florist locations may come as a surprise to customers who regularly buy flowers for occasions or home decoration.
Florists offer personalized services, including bouquet arrangements, gifts, and event services. The closures could reflect a shift in consumer behavior towards online flower deliveries.
Impact on Customers:
- Reduced in-store flower options.
- Customers may need to rely on external florists or online services.
Impact on Staff:
- Florist staff may face redeployment or redundancy.
- Morrisons may offer support for transitioning affected employees.
Meat and Fish Counters: 35 Locations Each Closing
Another significant part of the closures involves 35 meat counters and 35 fish counters. These counters have been a hallmark of Morrisons’ commitment to quality fresh food.
The decision may be driven by increased automation, cost-cutting, or changing shopping habits. Pre-packaged meat and fish options may replace these counters in some stores.
Impact on Customers:
- Fewer fresh meat and fish counters in-store.
- Potential increase in pre-packaged options.
Impact on Staff:
- Butchers and fishmongers may face redeployment or job losses.
- Morrisons may provide training for staff to adapt to new roles.
Pharmacies: 4 Locations Closing
Finally, the supermarket chain confirmed that four of its pharmacies will close as part of this restructuring. Morrisons pharmacies provide prescription services, over-the-counter medicines, and healthcare advice.
Impact on Customers:
- Reduced access to in-store pharmacy services.
- Patients may need to visit local pharmacies or order online.
Impact on Staff:
- Pharmacists and support staff may face reassignment or redundancy.
- Morrisons may offer support for affected employees.
Why Is Morrisons Making These Closures?
Morrisons’ decision to close multiple sections across its stores is likely driven by several factors:
- Rising Operational Costs: Running cafes, kitchens, and counters requires staff, utilities, and maintenance. Rising costs may make these sections unsustainable.
- Changing Consumer Behavior: More customers are opting for online shopping, meal delivery, and pre-packaged products.
- Streamlining Operations: Focusing on core supermarket offerings can help Morrisons stay competitive in the retail market.
- Increased Competition: Other supermarkets and online grocery services are attracting traditional Morrisons shoppers.
What It Means for the Future of Morrisons
The closures indicate a shift in Morrisons’ strategy. By focusing on its core offerings, the supermarket aims to reduce overheads and stay competitive.
For Customers:
- Some services will no longer be available in-store.
- Customers may need to adapt to a different shopping experience.
For Employees:
- Job transitions and redundancies are likely.
- Morrisons may offer support programs and redeployment opportunities.
FAQs
Q1: How many Morrisons cafes are closing?
A1: A total of 52 Morrisons cafes are set to close across the UK.
Q2: Are Morrisons pharmacies closing too?
A2: Yes, four Morrisons pharmacies will be closed as part of the restructuring plan.
Q3: Why is Morrisons closing market kitchens?
A3: All 18 market kitchens are closing due to operational costs, changing consumer habits, and competition from meal delivery services.
Q4: Will Morrisons Daily convenience stores be affected?
A4: Yes, 17 Morrisons Daily convenience stores are closing.
Q5: How will these closures affect staff?
A5: Staff may be redeployed within other parts of Morrisons or face redundancies. Support and training programs may be offered.
Q6: Are meat and fish counters closing as well?
A6: Yes, 35 meat counters and 35 fish counters will be closed.
Conclusion
The announcement of these closures marks a significant change for Morrisons and its customers. While the closures may be challenging for staff and communities, they reflect the supermarket’s need to adapt to evolving shopping habits and economic pressures.
Customers will need to adjust to fewer in-store services, and employees may face transitions or redeployment. As Morrisons focuses on streamlining operations, the future will likely see a shift towards a more digital and efficiency-driven shopping experience.
