Confectionery wholesaler Hancocks has closed four of its cash and carries as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

In a message sent to customers on 26 May, the wholesaler announced its Coventry, Stoke, Croydon and Reading branches will be shut permanently amid phased reopenings of its other warehouses.

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In the message seen by Better Retailing, Hancocks said: “Sadly, not all of our cash & carry sites will reopen, with four of our stores, Coventry, Stoke, Croydon and Reading permanently closed. We apologise for the inconvenience this may cause you, but we assure you we can still service your confectionery needs.

“The current pandemic has accelerated online shopping trends, with the convenience of online shopping appealing to more and more customers, which Hancocks has responded to by lifting our capacity and maintaining good service.”

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Hancocks has reopened six depots following the trial reopening of its Manchester branch. It said more will open in the coming weeks, “in line with social distancing guidelines at a pace that we can do safely.”

The reopenings include sites in Watford, Glasgow and Birmingham on the reduced opening hours of 10am until 4pm on Monday to Friday.

Find out more on our coronavirus information hub for retailers