Morrisons has announced it will reopen a number of its meat and fish counters after facing significant customer backlash over last year's closures. The supermarket chain had closed 18 Market Kitchen sites, 35 meat counters, 35 fish counters, 52 cafés, 13 florists, and four pharmacies in 2025, citing profitability concerns. However, following feedback from shoppers, the retailer is now reversing course on some of those decisions.
Market Street counters return
The counters, part of Morrisons' Market Street concept that recreates a traditional British market stall experience, will be reintroduced in phases. A Morrisons spokesperson told Metro: 'They're at the heart of our offer and a real differentiator for Morrisons. We've learned a lot from the closure of the meat and fish counters, and having listened to customers, we're planning to reopen a number over the coming months.' The first five locations have already reopened: Great Park Newcastle, Herne Bay, Thornbury, Yeadon, and Bolton Dawes.
Changes and improvements
The reopened counters will feature flatbeds and grab-and-go options, incorporating lessons learned on yield and waste to improve efficiency while maintaining traditional counter service. Digital ordering screens have also been added to pizza counters as part of a wider Market Street refresh. However, Morrisons confirmed it has no plans to reopen the cafés, florists, pharmacies, or Market Kitchen sites that closed last year.
Customer reaction
The initial closures were met with strong criticism on social media. Reddit user @Then_Consequence_500 said: 'I tend to go to the butchers instead of buying off the shelf as they are very personable.' @viceoverseer added: 'It is a shame as it does take the human element out of serving, which a lot of customers love.' Another user, @Splodge89, described the counters as the 'one remaining USP Morrisons has.'
Store closures continue
Despite the U-turn on counters, Morrisons is proceeding with plans to close around 100 stores across the UK, attributing the decision to increased National Living Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions. The first seven branches slated for closure include locations in Hull, Guisborough, Loftus, Middlesbrough, Redcar, South Driffield, and York. The full list of 100 closures has not yet been revealed.
