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Bristol shoppers react to Wilko’s administration
Bristol shoppers have had their say on Wilko collapsing into administration.
The discount retailer has four stores in the city – in Bedminster, Clifton, Union Street and Avonmeads – which are now at risk.
While Wilko has said its 400 stores across the country will remain open for now with no immediate job losses for its 12,000 staff, they face an uncertain future.
is needed now More than ever
Bristol24/7 spoke to shoppers outside the Union Street store to see how they feel about the potential closures.
Elle Hewett said Wilko’s administration is “terrible news”
Elle Hewett, who has moved to Bristol from Australia said: “It’s a well-respected brand and I think it’s terrible news.
“I do think those that online shop want the short-term gain but are quick to complain about shops disappearing.”
Nanett Gibb said she is “deeply sad” about the news
Nanett Gibb, originally from London, added: “I’m deeply sad about it … another affordable high-street shop that is disappearing.”
Max said he prefers to support smaller businesses
Shopper Max said: “While I quite like shopping in Wilko because it’s a good place to get affordable homeware, I personally do prefer to support smaller businesses.”
Devon Williams said they worked in Wilko as their first job and that it was always a busy store.
They added: “I think the pandemic has done the damage because people have started shopping online … it would be greatly missed.”
While Lou Wheeler, who works just across from the Union Street store, commented: “I was surprised to hear about it, I always felt it was very popular and also good value.
“There are so many people that benefit from the cost of their home items.”
Founded in 1930 in Leicester, the 93-year-old Wilko chain entered administration on Thursday after talks to secure a rescue deal failed.
Regarding the administration, Wilko CEO Mark Jackson said in a statement: “We’ve all fought hard to keep this incredible business intact but must concede that time has run out and now, we must do what’s best to preserve as many jobs as possible, for as long as is possible, by working with our appointed administrators.”
All photos: Emily Williams
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