Morrisons has confirmed the closure of seven convenience stores as part of a broader strategy to shut down around 100 locations across the UK. The supermarket chain, which operates over 2,200 stores, stated that the closures are due to ongoing losses at these branches, which were acquired as part of a £190 million rescue deal for McColl’s in 2022. Despite efforts to enhance trading, these stores have been unprofitable for some time. The situation has been exacerbated by significant cost increases linked to government policies, including rises in the national living wage and employer National Insurance contributions. While the affected stores are company-owned, Morrisons reassured that its franchised stores will continue to expand. The specific locations of the closures include several in Yorkshire, such as stores in York, Redcar, Hull, and Driffield. Morrisons is in discussions with employees regarding the closures and has not yet released a full list of the stores affected. A spokesperson from HM Treasury emphasized the government's economic plan to support businesses, which includes a £4.3 billion package to limit business rates and other measures to alleviate the cost of living.