A major supermarket has confirmed that three stores will close for good next week. The chain said the decision to shut the shops comes following “sustained market changes and operating cost increases”.

Co-op has announced that its stores in Bristol, Petersfield, and Blandford will each close their doors next Tuesday (February 24). While the wider Co-op business has a portfolio of 2,400 dedicated food shops, the three shops set to close are operated by Southern Co-op which owns around 200 stores across 11 counties in the region. The retailer has sustained a difficult 12 months, reporting losses of £2.6 million.

As reported by The Sun, a spokesperson for Southern Co-op said: “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.”

Southern Co-op will now “work closely” with the employees of the shops that are set for closure. They added they will “explore opportunities to transfer to other Southern Co-op stores/roles wherever possible”.

The spokesperson continued: “While this may not be feasible for everyone, we are committed to supporting all impacted colleagues throughout this process. We would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and apologise for any disappointment caused as a result of the decision to close these stores.”

The latest closures come after the Co-op store in the New Forest shut in January. Southern Co-op reported an operating loss of £2.6 million in 2025, citing rising costs, inflation and retail crime.

The following Co-op stores will close for good on Tuesday, February 24.