Thorntons stores to remain closed after lockdown

The company has cited the the impact of the pandemic on chocolate sales over the Christmas period and in the build up to Easter.

Retail director Adam Goddard said: ‘The obstacles we have faced and will continue to face on the high street are too severe. Despite our best efforts we have taken the difficult decision to permanently close our retail store estate.’

The decision to close its 61 shops will put more than 600 jobs at risk although the company has confirmed it will continue to sell its chocolate online and try to sell more through supermarkets.

Since the beginning of the crisis, sales through Thornton’s website have increased by more than 70 per cent compared to the previous year.

Thornton’s shop in Cascades Shopping Centre was forced to close its doors in August 2019 after 21 years operating in the city. A branch store in Gunwharf Quays also closed before the onset of the pandemic.

Thorntons was founded in Sheffield and has been selling chocolate products since 1911.

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