Which Wilko stores are re-opening on the high street ?
Before Christmas, five new stores are anticipated to reopen.
Consumers across the UK have been eagerly awaiting news about the reopening of Wilko stores and how this may affect their local high streets.
We provide you with a comprehensive list of confirmed Wilko locations set to reopen and delve into the ramifications of this significant development.
Which Wilko stores are re-opening ?
In a positive turn of events, CDS Superstores, the parent company of The Range, recently made an exciting announcement regarding the reopening of several Wilko stores. Two of these stores are located in Exeter and Plymouth, while two more will be found in the South East, with the last location situated in the North of the country.
The journey that led to this momentous announcement was fraught with uncertainty for both consumers and Wilko employees. The beloved retailer, known for its wide range of everyday essentials, faced a tumultuous period when it went into administration earlier this year. This left many customers puzzled about which Wilko locations were destined for closure. However, the outlook brightened considerably when it was revealed that both B&M and Poundland had stepped in to acquire a number of Wilko stores.
The impact of Wilko’s struggles on the high street
The disappearance of the UK’s beloved Wilko stores was a significant blow. There are whispers of hope for some of the former Wilko locations, as rumours circulate about potential reopenings.
What’s heartening for both employees and the local communities surrounding these stores is the commitment to preserving jobs and sustaining a retail presence in these areas. The chief executive of CDS Superstores has made it clear that former Wilko employees will be given preference when it comes to staffing the reopened stores. This commitment not only provides job security for existing Wilko staff but also ensures a seamless transition for customers who have grown accustomed to the excellent service provided by these dedicated employees.
The unfolding of these events is a testament to the resilience of the UK high street. Even in the face of challenges and closures, opportunities for revival and growth continue to emerge. The recent acquisition of up to 71 Wilko stores by Pepco, the owner of Poundland, from administrator Price Waterhouse Cooper is a prime example of this. When Wilko was unable to secure emergency funding, it was regrettably forced to close its doors permanently. However, the deal with Pepco signifies a fresh start for many of these locations, offering a renewed sense of hope for employees and consumers alike.
The anticipation surrounding the reopening of Wilko stores is not only a testament to the affection the UK populace holds for this retailer but also a promising sign for high streets nationwide. With former employees given priority in the rebranded stores and investments from companies like Pepco, there is a palpable sense of optimism for the future of Wilko and the communities it serves. As these stores prepare to open their doors once again, they carry with them the promise of rejuvenating their neighborhoods and contributing to the vitality of the UK high street.
The Wilkos re-opening as Poundland.
Broad Street, Chell Road, Stafford, Staffordshire
Pendle Rise Shopping Centre, Nelson, Lancashire
The Peel Centre, Great Portwood Street, Stockport
The Mall, Church Street, Eccles, Manchester
London Street, Southport, Merseyside
Lord Street, Leigh, Greater Manchester
East Street, Barking, London
High Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire
Bede Precinct, Viking Centre, Jarrow
The Broadway, Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire
Carregaman Road, Ammanford
Institute Lane, Alfreton
Pavilion Shopping Centre, Thornaby
Market Place, South Shields
Killingworth Centre, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Darwin Shopping Centre, Shrewsbury
Salter Shopping Centre, Droitwich
High Street, Redhill
Charles Street, Leicester
Bancroft, Hitchen
Lagny Street, Alnwick
Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds
Freeman Street, Grimsby
St Andrews Retail Park, Hull
Bore Street, Lichfield
High Street, Wombwell, Barnsley
Edmonton Green Shopping Centre, London
Oak Mall Centre, Greenock
Castle Dene Shopping Centre, Peterlee
Butterly Business Park, Dublin
Southgate Street, Gloucester (relocation)
Cornmarket, Lancaster (relocation)
Pallion Retail Park, Sunderland
Stonehills, Welwyn Garden City
High Street, Portishead (relocation)
Market Street, Crewkerne
High Street, Midsomer Norton, Radstock
Midland Road, Bedford
Preston Street, Faversham
High Street, Newport, Shropshire
The Harlequin Centre, High Street, Watford (relocation)
High Road, Wood Green, London (relocation)
Cleveragh Retail Park, Sligo
High Street, Wells
The Fort Shopping Park, Birmingham
The Broadway, Plymstock, Plymouth (relocation)
The History of Wilko Stores UK
Wilko, a household name in the United Kingdom, has a rich and storied history that has left an indelible mark on the retail landscape. From its humble beginnings to its present-day prominence, Wilko has consistently served as a go-to destination for essential everyday items.
Founding Years (1930s-1960s)
Wilko, originally known as Wilkinson Cash Stores, traces its roots back to the early 1930s when James Kemsey Wilkinson opened a small hardware store in Leicester. What started as a modest venture would eventually grow into one of the UK’s most recognisable retail brands.
Wilkinson Cash Stores continued to expand, offering a diverse range of products, from hardware and homeware to gardening supplies. This diversity of merchandise would become a hallmark of Wilko’s stores, ensuring they catered to a wide array of consumer needs.
The Rebranding and Modernization (1970s-1980s)
In the 1970s, the company underwent a significant transformation, rebranding itself as Wilko. This change marked a pivotal moment in the history of the brand and signified a commitment to modernization. Wilko continued to evolve, incorporating self-service shopping, which was a novel concept at the time.
Wilko expanded its product lines even further, introducing clothing and cosmetics to its inventory.
National Expansion (1990s-2000s)
The 1990s and 2000s saw an aggressive push for national expansion, with Wilko stores becoming a common sight in high streets and shopping centers across the UK. The company’s commitment to affordability, quality, and variety resonated with consumers, propelling it to a prominent position in the retail market.
The stores featured a wide assortment of products, including kitchenware, home furnishings, gardening tools, stationery, and much more.
Modern Era and Challenges (2010s-Present)
In the more recent years, Wilko has faced its share of challenges, including the impact of online shopping and economic uncertainties. The company enter administration and was split up over a number of retailers.
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