John Lewis explores closure of in-store services, putting 200 jobs at risk
John Lewis is consulting on proposals to close its foreign exchange bureaux across 30 stores and remove dedicated gift-wrapping areas in 25 stores, putting around 200 jobs at risk across the 36-shop estate.
The changes have not been finalised yet, but if approved, they would reportedly take effect in autumn. The move would see the bureau de change service removed entirely from affected branches, while gift wrapping would be absorbed into general store operations, with dedicated areas and staff removed from the store layout.
The proposed changes across these two service areas would put around 200 roles at risk. John Lewis said affected staff would be supported through formal consultation and that redeployment into other roles within the partnership would be explored where possible.
The service closures are part of a wider reshaping of the John Lewis store offer.
In June, the retailer said it would put £50 million into five stores this year, including more than £20 million at its Glasgow branch in Buchanan Galleries, as part of an £800m multi-year transformation programme spanning stores, technology, services and hospitality.
That programme has put the focus on expert advice, personal styling appointments, nursery consultations, and food and drink.
Hospitality now makes up more than one in five store transactions, and John Lewis reported 10% sales growth across its 62 cafés and restaurants over the past year. The retailer is also planning to expand its Platter John Lewis concept to 32 locations by the end of 2027.
The retailer has also put an emphasis on expanding its My John Lewis loyalty programme, forming part of a broader strategy to expand its beauty category as it seeks to respond to rising consumer demand.
John Lewis Managing Director Peter Ruis said in June: "We're continuing to invest across our estate so our shops reflect the things customers value most about John Lewis, expert guidance, inspiring products and the confidence to make the right choice."
John Lewis employees also received an annual bonus for the first time in four years in March, on the back of stronger profitability as the high street firm progressed further with its turnaround.
