Major UK supermarket chain set to close branch with another 34 stores | UK | News
A popular supermarket chain in the UK is preparing to close one of its branches, with another 34 branches planned to close. The food store announced its “difficult decision” to close the branch next month, citing the difficulties that led to the closure.
The co-operative’s branch on Derby Road in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, will close permanently on Saturday 22 November. The supermarket giant has faced criticism for operating two stores too close together near Ashby Town Centre. The issue arose after Central Co-op moved from the top of Market Street to a new location near an existing Co-op store.
The move sparked concerns among locals, who questioned the need for the two branches to be so close together and raised doubts about the company’s planning and use of retail space in the area.
A statement made by a Co-op spokesperson said: “Our store in Ashby-de-la-Zouch will close next month. Our priority is to provide full support to colleagues inquiring. We would like to thank the community for their support of this store.”
The spokesperson added: “We review our current store locations and sometimes only make the difficult decision to close a store after very careful consideration.”
The supermarket chain is facing serious financial difficulties that could lead to the closure of a further 34 stores.
Previous reports suggest locations in Braintree, Chelmsford, Basildon, Thurrock and Southend are among those potentially affected. The development has raised concerns about the future of the company’s presence in various communities as shoppers and employees prepare for possible changes to their local locations.
Chelmsford Star Co-op has admitted it is in a “financial difficulty” and may be forced to close if the proposed merger between Chelmsford Star Co-operative and Central Co-op does not go through.
The company said its financial difficulties had been exacerbated by rising costs, particularly increases in National Insurance contributions and the living wage.
