1,300 jobs at risk as John Lewis announces store closures

Retailer John Lewis has announced plans to permanently close eight of its stores across its UK network.

The firm has confirmed that its department stores in Birmingham and Watford will not reopen following the COVID-19 disruption and subsequent lockdown.

In addition, its At Home stores in Croydon, Newbury, Swindon and Tamworth will shut down, as will travel sites at Heathrow airport and London St Pancras. The closures will put 1,300 jobs at risk.

John Lewis Partnership chairwoman Sharon White commented: “Closing a shop is always incredibly difficult and today’s announcement will come as very sad news to customers and partners.

“However, we believe closures are necessary to help us secure the sustainability of the partnership - and continue to meet the needs of our customers, however and wherever they want to shop.”

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