Crowds strip Midlands branches of Woolworths bare
Deloitte has held talks with other retailers to take on the leases of around 300 stores, as well as the Woolworths trademark - meaning the famous name may make a return to the high street at some point.
There were also reports this week that 125 of the more successful stores could be saved under the Woolworths brand name, although Deloitte was unavailable for comment.
Woolworths opened its first UK store in Liverpool in 1909 but went into administration last month as debts and losses mounted.
Restructuring specialist Hilco had earlier failed in its attempt to buy the company’s stores for £1 and assume a major share of its £385 million borrowing facility.
The Ipswich branch was among the stores trading for the last time today. By late morning, the shelves had been virtually cleared as bargain hunters descended on the town centre shop.
Teresa Stewart, 38, from Stowmarket, Suffolk, queued for nearly half an hour to buy an assorted box of clothes for £2.
“I’ve got so much stuff - there are so many bargains,” said the mother of two. “I’ve got some school clothes for my children and various other bits and pieces. It’s sad to see Woolworths go.”
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At Woolworths in Chorlton, Manchester - closing today - shoppers picked up bargains with goods going for 90% off the normal price.
The shop was busy with bargain-hunters - but it was a sad day for the 20 staff, including one who had been with the company for nearly 30 years.
Staff said they have been told not to speak to the media - as they are still under contract to Woolworths - and are waiting to be paid their final salary.
One shopper said: “It is very sad that they are closing. When they close the doors for the final time today they will be effectively closing the door on their own jobs. It’s sad.”
Other Woolworths to close in the North West included the city centre shop in Liverpool and branches at Stretford, Bramhall and Altrincham.
One member of staff, who did not want to be named, said: “We started trading this morning at 70% off everything, then in the afternoon it went to 80% and now it is 90%.
“We have been told the more we get in the till the better it reduces the risk of us not being paid.
“We are open to 5.30pm - but if there’s nothing left on the shelves we will close early.
“I know at some stores fixtures and staff lockers have even been put on sale.”
