WHSmith store is ready to close in six days’ time
Poundland still not confirmed they will move into premises
WHSmith in Wishaw Main Street will close in six days time.
Back in January, the Wishaw Press revealed the bombshell news that the long-running store would be closing their doors.
Last year, WHSmith’s 612 UK-wide stores posted a £62million profit – up £3million on 2015.
Combined with the 768 travel outlets they operate, WH Smith posted profits of £140 million for the year ending March 2016.
However, signs placed in the shop frontage have been put up informing residents they will be shutting on Tuesday, March 21.
The sign reads: “This store will be closing on Tuesday, March 21 2017.
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, your closest WHSmith store will now be at 46 Regent Way, Hamilton.”
Residents at the time spoke of their anger at the closure as it was labelled as another hammer blow to the town centre.
Terry Mullen said: “You might as well block the street off at the top and the bottom because it’s a disaster.”
Helen Morrison added: “I use WHSmith from time to time and it will be a big loss.”
The Wishaw Press broke the news two months ago that Poundland, located next to WHSmith’s, will look to move into the building once the business closes down.
The store is still advertised as being ‘to let’, however, a spokesman from Poundland refused to confirm the move, stating: “Poundland are currently considering the acquisition of new stores to add to those which are already opened.
“The stringent acquisition process ensures the new stores are positioned in the right location and fit Poundland’s customer profile.
“Due to the popularity of Poundland’s product ranges, the organisation is keen not to raise anticipation for a new store before plans are finalised.
“Therefore, Poundland cannot disclose any more information at this stage.
The spokesman added this week: “As soon as all details have been confirmed, Poundland will immediately release this information to the area in question.
“We’re proud to be part of the community in Wishaw. While we’re not in a position to speculate on how we develop here, be assured we’re always looking for new ways to offer customers the amazing value we are famous for.”
Might as well block the Main Street off top and bottom because it’s a disaster . . . WHSmith closure will be a big loss