Morrisons call time on 26 florists shops

Whilst they may have sold over a million tulips at Mother’s Day, that hasn’t been enough to stop Morrisons shutting some of their Market place Florist branches.

However, whilst the giant retailer, which owns its own wholesale and packing division Flowerworld, was quick to assure us that it was only some branches and they would still have 160 operational in-store florist facilities, it is a sign of the times as The Grocer reported this week.

Because according to The Grocer article, whilst Morrisons may have opened 60 new outlets in Autumn 2020 – a direct response to the heady days of the pandemic when flower sales were at their highest - the cost-of-living crises has now seen a massive drop in sales.

This has meant the company, traditionally listed as one of the big 5 supermarkets, have had to look closely at their offering as a Morrisons spokesperson told us.

“Following a detailed review of our florist offer we have made the decision to close 26 florists that are not commercially viable.  In these stores, we will be launching a new range of hand tied bouquets for customers that are created at our Flowerworld site in Derby.  We will continue to offer customers a florist service in over 160 stores and will be offering all affected colleagues’ alternative roles should they wish to stay at Morrisons."

While it may be tempting to cheer at this news it isn't actually a good sign and there are lessons every florist should take note of.  Read the Editor’s Blog - Be more Morrisons - here