For immediate release:

CONCERNS OVER FUTURE OF LOCAL BOOTS STORES AFTER UK-WIDE CLOSURE ANNOUNCEMENT

High-street chemist chain Boots has announced that its set to close 300 stores across the UK over the coming year.

The news has led to fears about the future of the chemists in Rutherglen, Cambuslang and Halfway.

Boots haven’t named the stores earmarked for closure, but it is reported they may close branches that are close to others.

The announcement comes as Boots revealed a 13.4 percent increase to retail sales in the three months to the end of May.

Boots, who are part of Walgreens Boots Alliance, currently have around 52,000 team members and 2,200 stores – which will reduce to 1,900 if the closures go ahead.

It has also been reported that there are hopes there will be no redundances with staff potentially being redeployed to other stores.

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey and Cambuslang East councillor Katy Loudon, who is also the SNP’s candidate for the potential by-election in Rutherglen and Hamilton West, have written to the Managing Director of Boots UK urging Boots to commit to retaining the local branches.

Commenting, Cllr Katy Loudon said:

“Many people who rely on pharmacies build up a rapport with staff, and so the news of potential closures to local Boots branches will be of huge worry to local residents, particularly the elderly and those most vulnerable.

“Clare Haughey MSP and I have written to Boots urging them to commit to retaining their branches in this constituency and to protect the jobs of current staff.”

Ms Haughey added:

“Local pharmacists play a key role in ensuring people have their minor ailment needs addressed quickly, without needing to go to a GP or hospital.

“At a time when our NHS is under sustained pressure, and there are growing efforts to ensure people are treated in the most appropriate place, it is disappointing to see a huge company like Boots planning to shut stores.

“Customers and staff will want to know if their local branch is set to close or remain open, so Cllr Loudon and I are seeking this confirmation.”

ENDS