36 jobs will go as store closes doors

A supermarket in the heart of a Black Country town is to close with the loss of 36 jobs, it has emerged.

Somerfield in New Road, Willenhall, is closing due to its "poor trading performance" after three rival supermarkets opened up in close proximity. The store will close its doors on September 8 and bosses have said they will try to redeploy staff.

There has been a supermarket at the site for more than 20 years.

Helen Seed, spokeswoman for The Co-operative Group, said: "The Co-operative Group can confirm that the Somerfield store on New Road, Willenhall, is due to close on September 8.

"Staff at the store have been informed of the decision which has been taken with the greatest reluctance. It is not in any way a reflection on the commitment and hard work of the store team.

"Every effort will be made to redeploy as many as possible of the nine full time and 27 part time staff with The Co-operative or to help them find alternative employment."