Major UK supermarket closes flagship store on May 30 – 92 jobs at risk | UK | News
A popular UK retailer has announced that it will close one of its flagship stores, in a devastating blow to loyal customers. Marks and Spencer is preparing to close its flagship store on Oxford Street, Swansea, in the coming weeks.
The store has been an ever-present on the Welsh high street for 69 years but will soon close due to “practical and operational issues.” Speaking at the time the closure was announced, Richard Owen, M&S regional manager, said: “The Swansea store has been a key part of the community for many decades. Unfortunately, it is not viable to keep the store open as the building faces practical and operational issues requiring significant investment, the store has underperformed over a long period, and we must prioritise long-term growth decisions.”
The company has confirmed that its Swansea store will close for good on Saturday, May 30.
Approximately 92 members of staff were employed at the store when the closure was confirmed in February.
It remains unclear whether staff will be redeployed, although the company has said it aims to maintain a foothold in the city centre. The company is exploring alternative roles in nearby M&S stores as it continues to consult with those affected.
An M&S spokesperson said: “Our M&S Swansea city centre store will close on Saturday, May 30.
“As previously announced, this decision forms part of our plans to reshape our store estate so we can invest in stores that better meet the needs of our customers.
“We remain committed to serving customers in Swansea through our nearby stores and online, and are working closely with Swansea Council and other local partners to explore opportunities for a future M&S presence in the city.”
Loyal customers of the store have shared their disappointment at the decision, with the shop a popular focal point on the high street.
One shopper took to social media to claim that “Swansea City centre is now officially dead,” following the news.
Another branded the city as “a ghost town,” while a third claimed that the area is now a “no-go for shopping”.
A spokesman for Swansea Council said: “We are disappointed that M&S has decided to close its store at the end of May. However, we are continuing to work with M&S to find a new site for them in the city.”
