08/01/2015

Tesco To Close 43 Unprofitable Stores

Giant retailer Tesco is to close 43 unprofitable stores across the UK.

The firm has also shelved plans to build 50 new stores.

Group sales for the 19 weeks to 3 January 2015 declined by 0.6% at constant rates, including fuel and 1.0% excluding fuel. At actual rates, sales declined by 1.9% including fuel and by 2.3% excluding fuel.

However, like-for-like volume growth in fresh food was positive over the Christmas period, for the first time in five years. 

Chief Executive Dave Lewis said: "We have some very difficult changes to make. I am very conscious that the consequences of these changes are significant for all stakeholders in our business but we are facing the reality of the situation. Our recent performance gives us confidence that when we pull together and put the customer first we can deliver the right results."

(CD/JP)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

21 July 2005
Sluggish retail sales growth peaks in June
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics have revealed that in June the underlying rate of growth in retail sales volumes was the highest so far this year. However, the annual growth has remained the lowest for more than six years, according to data released today by the ONS.
18 November 2004
Figures show slide in retail sales growth
Underlying retail sales growth is distinctly lower than in the first half of this year, according to figures published today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The latest retail sales survey for October 2004 found that the volume of sales in the three months August to October was 1.
12 November 2012
MPs To Vote On Fuel Rise Delay
MPs will vote on Monday evening on plans to increase fuel duty by 3 pence a litre in January. Labour have said "it would be wrong" to bring the new rise in s soon an want it delayed until at least April. Conservative MPs concerned about the cost of petrol said they believed Chancellor George Osborne was "in listening mode" over the issue.
19 March 2008
Countdown For Fuel Payments For Pensioners
Over 60s who haven't yet claimed the Winter Fuel Payment have just days to get in touch with The Pension Service to receive help with energy costs. Pensions Minister Mike O'Brien urged older people to get their claim forms in the post before 28 March. The Winter Fuel Payment is £200 for the over 60s rising to £300 for the over 80s.
07 September 2005
Fuel protests threatened
Protestors have threatened to begin blockading refineries next week, if the tax on fuel is not reduced. Andrew Spence, a spokesperson for the Fuel Lobby, warned that the blockades would begin at 6am on September 14, unless price cuts were made.