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A WELL-KNOWN UK retailer has shut down a city store due to a ‘serious rat infestation’.
The brand, which operates over 200 stores across the UK, has been fined £250,000.
They also closed the branch promptly for a thorough cleaning.Credit: Getty Images
Environmental health officers discovered the issue at The Range's Enfield location on Suez Road.
There was a strong odor of urine and feces in the store, along with pet food showing visible bite marks.
Consequently, The Range admitted guilt to two violations of food hygiene regulations.
They also promptly closed the branch to facilitate a deep clean.
According to Enfield Council , The Range was initially fined £100,000 after officers identified the infestation on February 5, 2024.
A follow-up visit on January 15, 2025, revealed fresh droppings and live rats.
Additionally, there was an “ongoing failure to implement adequate pest control procedures.”
This resulted in an additional fine of £150,000 for the second violation.
The Sun has reached out to The Range for a statement.
Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulatory Services at Enfield Council, Cllr Susan Erbil, stated: “The Council’s environmental health officers found unacceptable conditions during their visit to The Range’s premises in Enfield.
“We took swift action to close the pet section and remove all food intended for human consumption from the shop floor and café to safeguard our residents.
“The substantial fines imposed by the judge in court are warranted due to the gravity of this situation.
“It is crucial for business operators to ensure that pest control measures are effectively implemented and regularly assessed.”
A follow-up visit on January 15, 2025, revealed fresh droppings and live rats.Credit: Getty
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was The Range store closed?
The Range store was closed due to a severe rat infestation that was discovered by environmental health officers, prompting immediate action for a deep clean.
What fines did The Range face?
The Range was fined a total of £250,000, which included an initial fine of £100,000 and an additional £150,000 for ongoing pest control violations.
What actions did Enfield Council take?
Enfield Council's environmental health officers closed the pet section of the store and removed all food for human consumption to protect the health of residents.
