Shutting up shop
Poundstretcher shocker
A long-standing Hamilton town centre store is to close.
After being in the town for over 25 years, Poundstretcher at the Top Cross announced this week they are to close.
The Brandon Street store put up signs in their windows on Monday about their closure – and that all stock must go.
The closure news comes after a new Poundstretcher store opened at the Palace Grounds Retail Park at the other end of the town centre in 2016, creating 20 new jobs.
A spokesperson for Poundstretcher confirmed that the store will close but a closing date is yet to be decided.
Executive chairman Nadir Lalani said: “We would like to thank all our loyal customers and the hard-working staff of our Poundstretcher store on Brandon Street who have helped turn this store into a cornerstone of the local community in Hamilton over the last 25 years.
“There is a second, larger store remaining open in the local area at the Palace Grounds Retail Park with a wider selection of branded household products, all at bargain prices.
“We are currently attempting to transfer staff members following other stores.”
Social media users expressed their sadness on the recent news and marked their concerns for another ‘empty unit’ in town.
Margaret Dolan Mccarroll said: “Soon there will be no shops left.”
Nicola Govan said: “That’s another corner that will be empty at the Top Cross!”
Eileen Archibald wrote: “Soon be a ghost town.”
Derek Whitters commented: “It’s tragic for the small business owners in Hamilton Town Centre. Fighting a losing battle.” Veronica Murphy said: “That’s a shame.” Paul Harris said: “Been there for years, very handy for people and not necessarily convenient for people to go to Palace Grounds.”
In 2014, the town’s department store Bairds, which is situated on the adjacent corner to Poundstretchers, closed its doors for the final time resulting in a loss of 53 jobs.
Last year, multi-million pound plans for a hotel, pub and restaurant on the site were given the go-ahead.
●For more reaction to the store closure turn to page 45. this closure to