John Lewis to close FX/gift-wrapping desks, 200 jobs at risk

John Lewis has placed approximately 200 jobs at risk as it proposes closing its in-store foreign exchange bureaux and dedicated gift-wrapping desks. The employee-owned retailer has begun a consultation process with affected staff over plans to shut bureau de change counters in 30 of its 36 UK department stores and specialist gift-wrapping services in 25 locations. If approved, the closures are expected to take effect this autumn.

The company stated the move reflects changing customer habits, with a growing preference for purchasing foreign currency online for home delivery or in-store collection, as well as increased use of bank cards and digital wallets abroad. Gift wrapping will remain available but will be offered at store tills rather than dedicated counters, a change the retailer said would make the service more accessible.

A spokesperson said the proposals are part of modernizing services to meet evolving customer needs. The company has pledged to support affected employees throughout the consultation and explore redeployment opportunities where possible.

The announcement comes during a period of significant restructuring for the John Lewis Partnership, which also owns...