GUTTED shoppers have called on the US owners of an East Renfrewshire supermarket to rethink shock plans to close the popular store.

Last week, online retailer Amazon announced it is considering shutting down the Giffnock branch of what is the only Whole Foods Market outlet in Scotland – a move which would see 70 jobs axed.

The community has hit out at the proposals, with a change.org petition urging the company to alter its stance already gaining more than 600 signatures.

Campaigners insist the Fenwick Road supermarket has to remain open because of its unique produce and significance to Giffnock’s economy.

The petition reads: “Whole Foods Market has proposed that two of its UK outlets are to close. One of these outlets is our haven that is Giffnock.

“It is a huge draw to the town for people from all over Scotland and is a supplier of produce that we just cannot get in other shops.

“It works with local suppliers to boost economy at a local level and has amazing sourdough into the bargain.”

Whole Foods Market said it will consult with staff before reaching a final decision on the future of the store.

Created on the site of the former Safeway store six years ago, the supermarket includes a butcher, fishmonger, cheesemonger and a bakery, as well as homewares and beauty products.

Amazon recently took over Whole Foods Market in a £10.7 billion deal.

Giffnock councillor Jim Fletcher and Neilston representative Paul O’Kane have asked the East Renfrewshire Council’s economic development department to negotiate with the firm in a bid to prevent the closure.

Cllr Fletcher said: “People are genuinely disappointed to see the shop close and I echo that disappointment.

“It is quite a unique store in Scotland. I know it is quite expensive but with all the organic produce, I don’t think there is another supermarket in Scotland like it.

“It does seem an odd time to close in the run-up to Christmas. I find it absolutely bizarre to close at this time of year as people normally stock up at Christmas and New Year on luxury goods, particularly at stores like Whole Foods which focuses on the luxury market.

“You would think Whole Foods would do better trade in the run-up to Christmas.

“I’m sorry to see such a niche market store close and I’m concerned about the potential for redundancies.

“If there is any way to persuade the company to change their mind we have to try to.

“However, from experience, when these boards are not based in the area, and when they have taken a decision, it is usually a very hard-nosed decision and it is very hard to get them to change it.

“We will do our best to see if we can help the staff to get into alternative employment.”

Cllr O’Kane added: “The big thing for us are the 70 jobs at risk. It’s coming up to Christmas so it is seriously disappointing and worrying news.

“It was a gap site for such a long time so we really don’t want it to lie empty again.

“We have asked if economic development can engage with the company to see if the discussions can be revisited.

“I think Amazon has renewed the model and are looking at providing a new online service. We need clarity from Amazon and Whole Foods – lots of people are really disappointed.”

Council leader Tony Buchanan said: “This is disappointing news for Giffnock, and the wider East Renfrewshire area.

“I know that this will be a time of great uncertainty for all the staff, especially with the proposed closure so close to Christmas.

“Any support and advice which the council can provide through our Work EastRen employability service will be made available throughout this difficult process and I would urge the staff to take advantage of this. Further support is also available through Skills Development Scotland and the DWP.

“The council’s Work EastRen team will be able to advise what options might be available following this announcement and can be contacted by calling 0141 577 8438.”