The closures follow the company’s 2025 plan to sell 22 of its directly managed convenience stores, a move COO for Retail Simon Eastwood described as part of an effort to “continue to evolve and develop.”

A spokesperson for Southern Co-op told The Sun: “As a result of sustained market changes and operating cost increases, we have taken the decision to sell three of our food convenience stores.

“This decision forms part of our wider efforts to optimise our store portfolio and strengthen our long-term operating model given external challenges and competition.

“It in no way reflects the dedication or performance of colleagues.”