Halfords hits back at criticism: ‘Partial store coverage’ necessary as an essential provider

Halfords has confirmed it will continue to operate its physical stores after being designated an essential provider of services by the UK government.

The auto parts and cycling retailer issued a statement this morning in which it maintained that it has the “legal flexibility to remain open across the entire business”.

As well as operating its physical stores on a partial basis, the firm will also continue to sell its products online.

The announcement comes after the brand came under fire across social media, with the trending hashtag #BoycottHalfords emerging as a response to the company’s actions in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Graham Stapleton, Halford’s CEO, commented: “In such difficult times the health and safety of our colleagues and customers remains our top priority and we continue to take all appropriate action in line with government advice.

“Halfords has an essential role to play in keeping the country moving, providing vital support to emergency workers, fleet operations, key workers and the general population as they travel for essential supplies and, where required, attend places of work.

“This is an unprecedented challenge for all of us, but I am confident that the actions we are taking to successfully navigate the current situation will put the business in a position of strength, enabling us, over the medium term, to refocus on our strategic transformation.”