I remain deeply concerned about the future of Poundland and the uncertainty facing thousands of workers across the country, including those in Liverpool Garston. This week, I visited a local Poundland store and spoke directly with staff about their concerns, particularly with Christmas approaching. I have also spoken to the retail workers’ union USDAW and joined parliamentary colleagues in calling for urgent action to protect jobs. There has been an urgent question in Parliament and a cross-party briefing for MPs this week, while Ministers have been meeting Poundland’s owners, US venture capital firm Gordon Bros, to press for a solution that protects workers and keeps stores trading.
With a decision on Poundland’s future expected in the coming week, more than 30,000 jobs could be at risk when those in the wider supply chain are included. The potential loss of Poundland stores would also be a blow to families who rely on affordable shops for everyday essentials, particularly during a cost of living crisis. Poundland’s staff deserve better than the uncertainty they now face, and the consequences of its collapse would be felt well beyond its stores. I welcome the Government’s intervention and will continue working with Ministers, USDAW and parliamentary colleagues to protect jobs and stand up for Poundland workers and the communities they serve.