Supermarket chain Co-op announces multiple UK stores to close for good – see where

Southern Co-op has confirmed three stores will shut permanently on February 24 as part of wider efforts to optimise its store portfolio amid rising costs

A leading UK supermarket chain has announced that three of its outlets will permanently shut their doors. Southern Co-op revealed the branches will cease trading for good on Tuesday, February 24, as the retailer seeks to reduce expenses following a difficult trading period for the business.

The firm stated the move comes after “sustained market changes” and escalating operational costs, emphasising it bears no relation to employee performance.

A company representative explained: “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.”

Staff members facing redundancy will receive assistance, with the business investigating potential relocations to neighbouring outlets wherever feasible. Shoppers have also received gratitude for their custom, with the chain expressing regret for any inconvenience resulting from the shutdowns, reports the Express.

The grocery giant previously disclosed an operational deficit of approximately £2.6million, pointing to inflation, increasing labour expenses and shop theft amongst the difficulties confronting the enterprise.

The organisation stated these alterations form part of a broader assessment of its convenience retail network. Compact town centre shops have faced mounting strain as consumers migrate towards larger weekly purchases and internet food deliveries.

Merchants have additionally been grappling with elevated utility charges and employment expenses throughout the previous year. Southern Co-op stated it remains dedicated to its remaining outlets and local communities.

Here is the complete list of co-op shops scheduled to shut on February 24:

• Bedminster, Bristol
• Moggs Mead, Petersfield
• Salisbury Road, Blandford Forum

The retailer, which runs more than 300 sites nationwide, issued a statement to its shoppers: “We would like to thank our customers for their loyalty,” a spokesperson added: “and apologise for any disappointment caused as a result of the decision to close these stores.”

Last year, the firm revealed plans to dispose of 22 of its directly managed convenience outlets as part of a reorganisation initiative, stating it would continue to modify the business for the future.

At the time, COO for Retail Simon Eastwood said the company would “continue to evolve and develop”, adding “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.”

Yet, following unsuccessful attempts to find a purchaser, the chain decided to close the affected outlets permanently.

Earlier in 2025 the business recorded an operating deficit of approximately £2.6million, attributing rising shoplifting, inflationary pressures and increased wage expenses for the decline.

The most recent closures arrive just weeks after the chain closed a branch in the New Forest in January.

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