Jobs fear for staff at Poundworld
But store is still trading for now
Anxious staff at a under- threat bargain shop are fearing for their jobs.
The future of the Poundworld unit at Heathfield in Ayr is in doubt after the company brought in administrators.
The branch is one of 39 in Scotland, including in Irvine and Kilmarnock.
Staff there this week revealed it was business as usual and one said: “We are in the dark as much as our customers. But we are open.”
Dave Gill, national officer for the union Usdaw, said: “Poundworld staff are deeply concerned about their jobs after the company failed to secure a rescue package. We are seeking urgent talks with the administrators to represent the best interest of our members and urge them to find a buyer for the company.
“Regrettably Poundworld do not recognise Usdaw and they have not been keeping us informed of developments.
“We are hopeful that the administrators will engage with us to help save jobs.
“We welcome Deloitte’s initial approach for Poundworld to continue to trade while a buyer for all or part of the business is sought and that there are no redundancies or store closures at this time. Usdaw are providing the support and advice our members require at this very difficult time and we expect the administrators to ensure all staff are treated with dignity and are fully consulted.”
When it opened with fanfare in March 31, 2016, the Heathfield Retail Park unit had 30 staff.
If it does close it’s the latest blow to the Heathfield centre which has already lost Maplin and Carpetwright.
The biggest tenant, Homebase, will shut their massive store this Sunday, June 24.
A spokesman for owners TPG Capital said it was a “difficult decision” to bring in administrators.
He said: “We invested in Poundworld because of our belief in how the company serves its customers and the strength of its employees
“Despite investing resources to strengthen the business, the decline in UK retail and challenging behav i o u r a f f e c t e d Poundworld significantly.”