In 2026, the issue of Morrisons store closures has become a major talking point across the UK retail sector. As one of Britain’s most recognisable supermarket brands, Morrisons operates hundreds of stores nationwide and serves millions of customers every week. When news emerges that branches may be shutting down, it naturally raises concerns among shoppers, employees and local communities.
This article provides a clear, fact-based guide to Morrisons store closures in 2026. It explains why closures are happening, which UK locations are affected, what this means for employees and communities, and how customers can respond. Confirmed information is clearly separated from speculation to ensure readers can make informed decisions without unnecessary alarm.
Why Are Morrisons Store Closures Happening in 2026?
The current Morrisons store closures are part of wider changes within the UK supermarket industry. Over recent years, the grocery sector has experienced mounting financial pressure due to increased energy costs, wage growth, supply chain challenges and shifts in consumer behaviour.
Confirmed Reasons Behind Closures
Based on official company communications and retail reporting, closures are generally linked to:
- Performance reviews of underperforming branches
- Strategic cost-reduction measures
- Long-term restructuring plans
These reviews assess footfall, profitability, property costs and competition levels in specific locations. If a branch consistently fails to meet financial targets, it may be considered for closure.
Industry Context
Competition from discount supermarkets such as Aldi and Lidl continues to reshape the UK grocery market. Many shoppers have shifted towards value-focused retailers, placing additional pressure on traditional large-format stores.
It is important to clarify that these Morrisons store closures do not indicate the company is ceasing national operations. Instead, they reflect strategic adjustments within a highly competitive retail environment.
Which Morrisons Stores Are Closing in 2026?
As of confirmed reports in 2026, a number of Morrisons branches have been announced for closure following performance assessments. Closure lists are typically published through official statements and major UK news outlets.
Below is a structured example of how closure information is presented:
| Town/City | Region | Status | Closure Timeline |
| Selected Town A | North West England | Confirmed | Spring 2026 |
| Selected Borough | Greater London | Confirmed | Summer 2026 |
| Selected City C | Scotland | Under Review | TBC |
| Selected Town D | West Midlands | Confirmed | Autumn 2026 |
Confirmed Closures vs Rumours
When discussing Morrisons store closures, it is essential to separate:
Confirmed closures – Officially announced by Morrisons through verified channels.
Under review locations – Stores being assessed but not yet confirmed.
Unverified rumours – Social media claims without formal confirmation.
Customers should rely only on company statements or established UK news organisations for accurate updates.
Are Any Morrisons Stores Closing in London?
Given the focus on a UK audience particularly readers of London-based publications London store closures are of particular interest.
Current Position for Greater London
While certain Greater London branches have undergone performance reviews, closures in the capital are generally strategic rather than widespread. London stores often benefit from higher population density, stronger customer footfall and integrated online delivery networks.
It is also worth noting that London’s retail property market allows closed sites to be quickly repurposed. If a Morrisons store closes, it does not necessarily mean the building will remain vacant long-term.
Residents concerned about Morrisons store closures in their borough should consult official announcements rather than relying on speculation circulating online.
What Do Morrisons Store Closures Mean for Employees?
Store closures inevitably affect staff members. However, the impact varies depending on store size, regional staffing needs and alternative branch availability.
Confirmed Employment Process
Historically, when Morrisons has closed stores, the company has:
- Entered formal consultation periods with affected employees
- Offered redeployment to nearby branches where feasible
- Provided redundancy packages in accordance with UK employment law
Practical Example
Consider a medium-sized town where a Morrisons branch employs 70 staff members. If that branch closes, some employees may transfer to nearby stores, especially if those locations are expanding or require additional staffing. Others may receive redundancy packages if no suitable positions are available.
This illustrates that Morrisons store closures do not automatically result in immediate job loss for every employee, although uncertainty during consultation periods can understandably be stressful.
How Will Morrisons Store Closures Affect Local Communities?
Supermarkets often play a broader role than simply providing groceries. In many towns, a Morrisons store serves as:
- A major local employer
- A convenient shopping location for elderly residents
- A contributor to high street footfall
When a store closes, the short-term effects may include reduced convenience and decreased customer traffic in surrounding retail areas.
However, retail spaces are frequently repurposed. Former supermarket buildings may become alternative grocery outlets, discount stores or mixed-use retail developments. The long-term community impact therefore depends heavily on local planning decisions and market demand.
Is Morrisons Shutting Down or Simply Restructuring?
One of the most common misconceptions surrounding Morrisons store closures is the belief that the entire company is shutting down.
Confirmed Facts
Morrisons continues to operate hundreds of stores across England, Scotland and Wales. There is no official confirmation of a nationwide shutdown.
Retail restructuring is common among major supermarket chains. Both Tesco and Sainsbury’s have previously closed underperforming stores as part of strategic reviews.
Closing specific branches does not necessarily reflect overall financial collapse. In many cases, it reflects efforts to strengthen long-term profitability and competitiveness.
What Should Customers Do If Their Local Morrisons Is Closing?
If a local branch is confirmed to close, customers can take several practical steps.
First, check nearby Morrisons locations or other supermarkets within reasonable travel distance. In urban areas, alternative stores are often available within a short radius.
Second, explore Morrisons’ online grocery services. Many areas are covered by home delivery networks that operate independently of specific store sites.
Third, ensure loyalty points, vouchers or gift cards are redeemed before the closure date.
Remaining informed through official announcements will help avoid confusion or misinformation.
What Is the Future Strategy for Morrisons in the UK?
Despite the headlines around Morrisons store closures, the company continues to invest in key growth areas. These include expanding convenience-format stores, strengthening supply chain efficiency and enhancing online delivery capabilities.
Retail analysts suggest that the long-term strategy focuses on streamlining operations while maintaining national presence. Rather than shrinking significantly, Morrisons appears to be repositioning certain parts of its estate to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving grocery market.
Conclusion
The discussion surrounding Morrisons store closures in 2026 reflects broader changes within the UK supermarket industry. While some branches have been confirmed for closure following performance reviews, there is no evidence that Morrisons is shutting down nationwide.
For customers, the key is to rely on verified announcements and avoid unconfirmed rumours. For employees and communities, the impact varies by location and is often managed through consultation processes and redevelopment plans.
Morrisons remains a significant player in the UK grocery sector, and while certain stores may close, the wider business continues to operate across the country.
FAQs
Are Morrisons store closures permanent once announced?
Yes. Once a closure date is officially confirmed by Morrisons, the branch typically ceases operations permanently under that branding.
How frequently does Morrisons review store performance?
Performance reviews are periodic and depend on financial conditions, local competition and strategic planning cycles.
Do store closures affect Morrisons petrol stations?
In some cases, petrol stations remain operational even if the main supermarket closes. This depends on site ownership and commercial viability.
Can staff transfer to other Morrisons branches?
Employees are usually offered redeployment opportunities where suitable vacancies exist nearby.
Are London stores more protected from closure?
London stores often benefit from stronger footfall, but they are still subject to performance reviews like any other branch.
Does online shopping stop if a local store closes?
Not necessarily. Online services often operate from regional fulfilment centres rather than individual retail stores.
Could a closed Morrisons reopen under another supermarket brand?
Yes. Retail properties are frequently acquired or leased by other supermarket operators or commercial tenants.
