Greggs closes 11 UK stores during extreme heat warning

Greggs has temporarily closed 11 UK stores for two days during the Met Office's red extreme heat warning, saying the move is intended to protect customers and colleagues.

The closures took effect on Wednesday, June 24, and are due to run through Thursday, June 25, with the branches expected to reopen on Friday, June 26.

The announcement adds a consumer-facing example of how the UK's heatwave is affecting everyday services, as businesses and public bodies adjust operations in severe weather.

Temporary closures

According to reporting on the company's customer email, Greggs told shoppers that selected shops would not open during the hottest part of the warning period. The company did not give a detailed public explanation beyond protecting staff and customers in severe hot weather.

Reported affected locations include the Leicester Square branch in London, as well as stores in Wolverhampton, Luton, Gosport, Trowbridge, Northampton and Barnet. Greggs said the total number of closures was 11.

Wider heat disruption

The closures come amid a rare red weather warning from the Met Office for extreme heat and humidity across parts of the UK.

Later reporting said the UK recorded its hottest June day on record, with temperatures reaching 35.8C in West Sussex on June 24. The broader heatwave has already caused disruption to transport, schools and other public services.

Greggs is one of several UK businesses making operational changes during the heat, highlighting the practical effect of extreme temperatures on frontline retail work.

What happens next

The current plan is for the closed stores to reopen on June 26. Further disruption will depend on how long the heat warning and its effects continue.