Heron Foods is one of the UK’s most recognised discount supermarket chains, with over 340 outlets across England, Wales and the Midlands. Despite recent national headlines about store closures, the full picture is nuanced: some stores are shutting, others are relocating, and new ones are opening in strategic areas.
This guide provides confirmed closure information, explains the reasons behind these changes, and outlines what shoppers should expect as Heron Foods continues to evolve its UK presence.
Why Are Heron Foods Stores Closing in 2026?
Heron Foods closures in late 2025 and into 2026 are not the result of a company collapse or full‑chain shutdown. Rather, a small number of UK stores have shut their doors due to commercial or lease‑related factors. These include landlords choosing not to renew leases and strategic decisions to relocate or replace underperforming shops with larger formats nearby.
These decisions reflect the broader dynamics of UK retail, where location performance, rental costs, and consumer footfall dictate whether a physical branch remains viable. Heron Foods, now part of the larger B&M group, appears to be reshaping its estate to focus on opportunities where a larger store footprint can better serve local demand.
Which Heron Foods Stores Are Closing Permanently?
Official information from Heron Foods does not publish a complete central list of closures. However, local confirmed examples illustrate the type of changes happening:
Notable Confirmed Closures
- Scunthorpe (Jubilee Way, Parishes Shopping Centre) – This store, which only opened in February 2024, closed permanently on 27th September 2025 after a short period of trading.
Other Closure Factors
- Lease Expiries – Some branches, such as those impacted by landlords deciding not to renew agreements, have also ceased trading in late 2024 and 2025.
Because Heron Foods operates individually leased properties, closures are often specific to the property and are not necessarily replicated elsewhere.
Tip: Heron Foods maintains an up‑to‑date list of open stores via its official store locator on their website, where shoppers can search by postcode for current status.
Are Any Heron Foods Stores Being Relocated or Rebranded?
Yes. Some closures occur so that stores can relocate into better positions or larger spaces rather than exit an area completely. For example:
- Retail news reports indicate new openings and relocations in 2025, with some existing smaller sites closing ahead of these moves to consolidate operations into a more strategic location.
These relocations often reflect a broader expansion strategy, not downsizing Heron Foods continues to adapt its store network based on local demand and operational efficiency.
How Have Local Communities Reacted to These Closures?
Customer sentiment around Heron Foods closures and operations is mixed, according to public reviews. On platforms such as Trustpilot, many reviewers have criticised aspects of store service, product quality, or pricing comments that sometimes reflect the broader impact of closures on shoppers. Others praise competitive pricing and friendly staff at specific locations.
Examples from Reviews:
- Some customers express frustration around product pricing and service quality at certain stores.
- Others appreciate the budget‑friendly bargains that Heron Foods is known for.
While closures inevitably disappoint loyal customers, many have responded by acknowledging positive experiences and thanking staff who served their communities.
Will Heron Foods Open New Stores in 2026 Despite Closures?
Absolutely. Heron Foods is not simply closing stores; it is actively expanding. A key example from late 2025 reports multiple new openings and upgraded sites across the UK. These include larger purpose‑built stores designed to provide a better shopping experience.
This expansion ties into the group’s broader strategy under B&M’s ownership: balancing closures of underperforming sites with investment in larger, more modern stores that better match current retail trends.
How Can Customers Find Out if Their Local Heron Foods Is Affected?
Shoppers concerned about their local store can take several reliable steps:
- Use the Heron Foods store locator: Find the current status of any store by entering a postcode on the official site.
- Check local news outlets: Regional newspapers often report specific closures or openings ahead of time.
- Follow social media updates: Local community groups sometimes share notices about store changes.
These sources help ensure customers are informed about their nearest Heron Foods branch.
What Should Customers Do If Their Heron Foods Has Closed?
If a local Heron Foods branch has closed:
- Check alternate nearby stores using the official locator.
- Look for relocation signs sometimes closures are followed by nearby openings.
- Reach out to customer service for specific account or voucher enquiries.
Closure notices are typically displayed on store doors well before the final trading day to give customers notice.
What Does the Future Hold for Heron Foods in the UK Retail Market?
The pattern emerging in late 2025 and into 2026 indicates that Heron Foods is not withdrawing from the UK market. Rather, it’s adapting to modern retail challenges and seizing growth opportunities. While isolated closures occur, the brand continues to serve budget‑conscious shoppers from a robust base of stores and is investing in new, larger locations.
Heron Foods’ ongoing evolution illustrates a balancing act between strategic reshaping and maintaining its identity as a key discount supermarket chain in the UK.
FAQs About Heron Foods Store Closures
Are Heron Foods closures happening across the UK or just in certain areas?
Closures are specific to particular locations, often due to lease expiries or strategic relocations not a nationwide shutdown.
Can I still use my Heron Foods vouchers if a store closes?
Yes, vouchers are typically valid at other branches. Check with customer service for detail.
How will I be notified if my local store is closing?
Stores normally post closure notices onsite and updates may appear online or in local media.
Does Heron Foods plan to offer home delivery to affected areas?
Delivery options vary by location; check the official website or call the store.
Are any jobs being lost due to these closures?
Heron Foods aims to relocate staff where possible to nearby branches or expanding sites.
Who owns Heron Foods now?
Heron Foods is owned by B&M, having been acquired in 2017.
Will more Heron Foods stores close in the future?
Future closures depend on commercial viability, but the overall trend shows both closing and strategic expansion.