Waitrose confirms store closure with the loss of more than 100 jobs

Upmarket supermarket Waitrose has confirmed the closure of one of its stores in Staffordshire with the loss of more than 100 jobs.

The company, part of the John Lewis Partnership, announced in February that it was consulting on the closure of six stores around the UK as the retail sector continued to feel the squeeze.

One of the six stores was in Leek and following the consultation, the company has said the store will close in September.

Business leaders in the area have said they regret the company’s decision.

Staffordshire Moorlands Chamber of Commerce president John Capper said: “We have been working closely with the district council, the retail community in Leek, MPs, key influencers and Waitrose itself to encourage a rethink of this store closure.

“We are, therefore, bitterly disappointed to hear confirmation that Waitrose has decided to press ahead with the closure with the loss of over 100 jobs.”

“Local feeling was strong with many Moorlands residents and businesses telling us that the store would be sorely missed and its closure have an adverse impact on the town.”

He said while Leek had an attractive retail scene made up of independents and national names, the loss of a brand like Waitrose was still a bitter blow to the area, both in terms of the jobs that will be lost and the footfall the store attracts.

“There will undoubtedly be a knock-on effect for other businesses,” he added.

He said the chamber, together with other local groups, would be working to ensure the impact of the closure was minimal.

“We will continue to promote Leek as an attractive and unique shopping destination and are on-hand to provide advice to businesses in the town to support them to grow and succeed,” he said.