200 Wilko stores still at risk of closure

A large proportion of Wilko stores are at risk of closure after the household goods retailer appointed administrators earlier this month (August 2023).

In an update, Joint Administrators, PwC, warned that redundancies were likely as a buyer for the retailer was sought. PwC remains open to offers to purchase the retailer, and shared that while discussions with potential buyers are ongoing, interest is limited to only parts of the business. Sky News has reported that competitors Poundland and B&M are both in talks to take over some Wilko stores, with around 200 still at risk of closure.

Whether or not the Stockport branch of the retailer, which employs around 40 people, is earmarked for purchase has not been confirmed. Nationwide, the retailer employs around 12,000 people at 400 stores, distribution centres and head office operations in the East Midlands.

On Wednesday 23rd August, PwC met with trade union, GMB, which is representing Wilko staff, to warn of the likely job losses as a result of only a partial sale of the business, with retail, warehouse operations, call centre and head office colleagues all at risk.

Jane Steer, Zelf Hussain and Edward Williams of PwC said in their statement:

“Since our appointment as administrators of Wilko we have held extensive discussions with parties who expressed an interest in buying all or part of the business. While discussions continue with those interested in buying parts of the business, it’s clear that the nature of this interest is not focused on the whole Group. Sadly, it is therefore likely that there will be redundancies and store closures in the future and it has today been necessary to update employee representatives.

“We know this will further add to the uncertainty felt by workers. We will be supporting staff through this deeply unsettling time, working closely with the government, JobCentre plus, unions and large employers to maximise possibilities for a rapid return to work for employees in the event of redundancies. 

“In the immediate term, all stores remain open, continue to trade and staff continue to be paid. Contrary to speculation, there are currently no plans to close any stores next week.”

Andy Prendergast, GMB National Secretary, said: 

“GMB Union will continue to support our members through this process and will fight to ensure they are consulted as per the law and receive every penny they are entitled to. 

“We will fight to ensure people are held accountable for this situation for the simple reason our members deserve so much better.”