The review, which was conducted in April 2006, identified 26 branches in the West Midlands area that were being under-utilized and collectively operating at a loss. However, the decision for possible closures was deferred until 2007.
The branches affected are Albrighton, Bewdley, Bloxwich, Cradley Heath, Oakengates, Perton, Tettenhall,; Willenhall, and Wombourne. These establishments are scheduled to close on April 28, 2007.
The listed branches saw no improvements in activity since the review and have underperformed compared to other branches in the network with smaller membership bases, and remain commercially unviable.
The decision to close any branch is always taken as a last resort and we have tried to keep the number of sites affected to a minimum, commented Robert Sharpe, Portman’s chief executive. We do appreciate the inconvenience and disappointment that our decision will cause those members who are actively using any of the branches concerned. We have a responsibility, however, to our membership as a whole and unprofitable branches directly impact upon our ability to provide the highly competitive products our customers have every right to expect.
