Thorntons, the iconic British firm that has been making ‘chocolate heaven since 1911’, is the latest retail casualty of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite its ‘best efforts’, it says, the company has announced it will start full consultation talks to permanently close all 61 of its UK retail stores, putting over 600 jobs at risk.
A statement on Thornton’s website cited numerous factors, including tough trading conditions due to the pandemic, numerous lockdowns – especially over Easter and Christmas, coupled with the ‘changing dynamics of the high street’ and shift to online shopping. The continuing obstacles were “too severe”, the company said.
Thorntons, like many others, have benefited from strong growth in online sales. Said to be a key focus area for the company going forward. It will still have a visible presence on the high street too, thanks to its franchise stores and grocery partners in supermarkets.
The company said: “We remain committed to our iconic Thorntons brand and will continue to invest further in the future potential to ensure we evolve with the times.”
Thorntons was acquired in 2015 by Italy’s Ferrero International, which makes Kinder, Tic Tac and Nutella, as well as Ferrero Rocher chocolates.
According to a report by The Times, Thornton’s factory in Alfreton in Derbyshire, will continue making more chocolate for international markets.
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