Which Wilko stores will reopen? 300 returning sites announced
Wilko is returning to the UK high street today – just months after the retailer collapsed into administration.
The beloved homeware chain will welcome customers to new shops in Plymouth and Exeter following a takeover by CDS Superstores, which owns The Range.
The retailer fell into administration in August this year and, following series of failed buyout attempts, its brand, website and intellectual property were bought by CDS.
Owner Chris Dawson is spearheading Wilko’s resurgence, with plans to open three more stores before Christmas – including one in Luton on 8 December.
Which Wilko stores will reopen?
Two Wilko stores that closed after the chain collapsed have reopened under new ownership in Devon.
The Plymouth and Exeter branches opened their doors at 9am and are the first to do so nationally following Wilko’s collapse in August.
The exact locations and dates of other new shops are yet to be confirmed but CDS Superstores has teased the potential opening of 300 more shops in 2024, including one in Northern Ireland for the first time.
The Range will also sell Wilko branded goods and the Wilko website has been reopened.
Will Wilko workers be re-hired?
Prior to its collapse this year, the chain employed around 12,500 workers and had more than 400 stores.
The Range has confirmed it is prioritising ex-Wilko employees for jobs.
Administrators from PricewaterhouseCoopers had been unable to find a buyer for the entire Wilko business, meaning its store leases and other assets had to be sold off in parts.
Poundland has agreed to take up the leases of up to 71 Wilko shops, while B&M announced plans to buy up to 51.
CDS Superstores chief executive Alex Simpkin said: “It’s clear that there’s a huge love for Wilko and we’re proud to confirm we’ll be re-introducing the brand to high streets in Plymouth, Exeter and Luton in the coming weeks.
“We’re so glad to be bringing employment opportunities to these towns and for helping local families and communities have easy access to all the everyday home and garden items they need once again.
“This initial roll-out is only the beginning for our plans for revitalising the Wilko brand on the nation’s high streets and retail parks, and we’ll be announcing further store launches and re-openings throughout 2024.”
