The Ministry of Industries and Production has officially announced the permanent closure of all Utility Stores across Pakistan, effective from July 31, 2025.
A formal notification issued by the Ministry ordered the complete cessation of sales and procurement activities at these stores, marking the end of their operations.
The decision to shut down Utility Stores nationwide comes after a directive from the federal government. All active Utility Stores outlets will no longer operate, and their ongoing functions will be completely suspended.
As part of this move, the existing inventory at the stores will be transferred to designated warehouses for safekeeping.
In addition to the closure, notices have been issued for the evacuation of rented store premises, with the process set to begin on August 1. Furthermore, all assets, including information technology equipment, will be auctioned off in a transparent manner.
The closure of the Utility Stores network will significantly impact its employees. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously instructed the implementation of a Voluntary Separation Scheme (VSS) for affected workers.
This scheme aims to provide financial support and an exit option for those whose livelihoods depend on these now-defunct stores.
The decision to shut down Utility Stores has sparked mixed reactions. Some view it as a necessary step to streamline operations, while others express concern over the loss of a vital resource for affordable goods, particularly in low-income areas.
With the closure of these stores, the government will need to address how to continue providing affordable products to vulnerable communities.
The closure marks the end of an era for Utility Stores, which had been a key part of Pakistan’s retail landscape for many years.
Moving forward, the government will likely explore alternative means to ensure that citizens, especially the disadvantaged, have access to basic necessities.
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