The closure of two major stores today by a high street brand is causing distress among local communities. Boots, the popular pharmacy chain, is set to shut down its Cliftonville and Biggin Hill locations, putting 300 more stores at risk of closure in the coming months.
The rising number of online shoppers has contributed to the decision to close these stores. Sales on Boots’ digital platform have surged by 25% in the latest period, leading to the consolidation of physical stores. This move aims to focus investment on individual stores and provide an excellent and up-to-date environment for customers.
The news of the closures has been met with frustration from the community. A Cliftonville resident expressed their disappointment in a Facebook post, highlighting the accessibility and convenience of the store being closed. They described it as a “terrible blow” for the local community, emphasizing the importance of having a nearby pharmacy.
Boots had previously announced plans to close 300 stores across the UK within the next year, reducing its store portfolio from around 2,200 to 1,900. The consolidation will allow Boots to optimize its locations and concentrate resources where they are most needed.
It’s worth noting that these closures are not expected to result in any job losses, as the company aims to redistribute its 52,000 employees across its remaining stores. James Kehoe, the global chief financial officer at Walgreens Boots Alliance (Boots’ parent company), confirmed the intention to optimize locations and opening hours.
Boots’ retail sales have seen a significant increase of 13.4% in the three months leading up to May compared to the same period last year. Previous store closures were mainly due to profitability issues, with many stores in close proximity to one another. In 2020, Boots also announced the closure of 48 opticians, impacting 4,000 jobs.
The retail industry has been facing challenges since the pandemic, with consumers cutting back on spending due to inflation and a shift toward online shopping. High energy costs have further intensified the struggles faced by high street shops.
While the closure of these stores may disappoint local communities, Boots remains committed to delivering excellent service and adapting to the evolving retail landscape. The company believes that by consolidating its stores, it can provide a fresh and reliable experience for its customers.
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