The convenience store chain will shut its branches in Bedminster in South Bristol, Moggs Mead in Petersfield and Salisbury Road in Blandford on February 24
Southern Co-op has confirmed it is closing three stores before the end of the month.
The convenience store chain will shut its branches in Bedminster in South Bristol, Moggs Mead in Petersfield and Salisbury Road in Blandford on February 24.
The chain, which runs over 300 locations across the south of England, said it ”will work closely” with employees to “explore opportunities to transfer to other Southern Co-op stores/roles wherever possible”.
A spokesperson for Southern Co-op told The Sun: “As a result of sustained market changes and operating cost increases, we have taken the decision to sell three of our food convenience stores.
“This decision forms part of our wider efforts to optimise our store portfolio and strengthen our long-term operating model given external challenges and competition.
“It in no way reflects the dedication or performance of colleagues.”
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They added: “While this may not be feasible for everyone, we are committed to supporting all impacted colleagues throughout this process.
“We would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and apologise for any disappointment caused as a result of the decision to close these stores.”
It comes after Southern Co-op announced plans last summer to sell 22 of its directly operated food convenience stores. 20 stores are being sold to two third-party retailers, and two will be converted to operate under Southern Co-op’s Welcome franchise.
Southern Co-op said at the time that members of staff at the affected stores will transfer to their new employer under TUPE regulations.
Simon Eastwood, Southern Co-op’s Chief Operating Officer for Retail, said at the time: “As a food business, we continue to evolve and develop our offering to meet the changing needs of our customers and members.
“The sale of these stores reflects our ongoing efforts to optimise our store portfolio and strengthen our long-term operating model and in no way reflects the hard work of colleagues.”
Southern Co-op also announced plans to open two new food stores toward the end of last year, building on the purchase of six new managed stores and opening 25 Welcome franchise stores over the last two years.
