Retail in Ayrshire has suffered another blow today with the news that a well-known health and household goods retailer plans to closure some of its stores.
Semichem is consulting on the closure of up to 22 outlets across Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north-east of England.
And it has been confirmed that Cumnock's Semichem, in Glaisnock Street will be axed while the store in Maybole's High Street is being placed 'under review.'
Owners Scotmid Co-operative say the closures have been prompted by "ongoing challenges" to high street trading, which have been "exacerbated" by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A total of 140 Semichem staff have now entered a formal consultation process.
Management at Scotmid are exploring opportunities to redeploy as many as possible within its wider business.
Karen Scott, head of Semichem, said: “The high street was already struggling to adapt to the pace of change in shopping habits, including out-of-town developments and the rise of internet shopping.
“That change has undoubtedly been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sadly, we have reached the point where it is no longer viable to keep some of our stores open.
“We are grateful for both Scotmid and subsequent government support, which has undoubtedly prolonged the life of many stores.
“Our priority now is to support affected colleagues at this difficult time. We are already looking for redeployment opportunities within the Scotmid group and will help all our staff both personally and professionally.”
Semichem was founded in 1980 and became part of Scotmid Co-operative in 1995.
It currently operates 86 stores in shopping centres and on high streets across Northern Ireland, Scotland and the north-east of England.
Ms Scott added: “The remaining stores in our Semichem portfolio are trading satisfactorily given the current circumstances.
"Like many other retailers, we are hopeful that, as restrictions ease, footfall will return to our high streets. I am also pleased to say that our investment programme will resume in the summer.”
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
