Even when a store is closed, Company Shop remains legally and ethically responsible for the safety, quality and traceability of all food on site. During a power outage, we are unable to guarantee that food has been stored within safe temperature limits, which means we cannot responsibly give it away.

Chilled food must be kept at or below 5°C to remain safe for consumption. When power is lost, chilled products can rise above this temperature. Once this happens, we can no longer guarantee food safety, and the products must be withdrawn to protect customers.

Frozen food presents a different challenge. If frozen items begin to thaw, they cannot be safely refrozen, and without continuous temperature monitoring and full traceability, we are unable to redistribute them. Losing that visibility means we cannot be confident the food remains safe.

It is both. Food safety regulations require us to ensure food is safe at all times, even during unexpected events. Giving food away without being able to verify its safety could put people at risk and expose both Company Shop and our brand partners to action from Environmental Health or Trading Standards.

Reducing food waste is central to what we do, and we work hard every day to redirect surplus food into communities in a safe and responsible way. However, food safety must always come first. Where safety or traceability cannot be guaranteed, we have to make difficult decisions, even when that’s disappointing.

Food safety relies on continuous monitoring and clear evidence that temperature limits have been maintained. If that evidence is missing - even for a short period - we cannot safely assume the food is suitable for consumption.

When food can’t be redistributed safely, it is managed in line with food safety and environmental regulations. We always explore the most responsible options available within those constraints.

If a store closes unexpectedly, updates will be shared via social channels and email where possible. While we understand the frustration these situations cause, decisions will always be guided by member safety and regulatory compliance.

Because we handle surplus food from brand partners, we have an additional responsibility to maintain full traceability and compliance, even during exceptional circumstances. These standards protect our members and ensure continued trust with our brand partners.