Around 600 stores and 12,000 jobs could be at risk as UK high street brand Poundland may enter administration.
Trade Union Usdaw has shared that it is concerned that current owners, Gordon Brothers, are risking workers’ jobs after putting the brand up for sale.
Gordon Brothers put Poundland up for sale after buying it for £1 in 2025 and is currently in ongoing talks with prospective buyers, including the Martin Property Group.
Usdaw has said that it is worried that Gordon Brothers may decide to pull out and put the company into administration.
Poundland at risk of administration with 12,000 jobs at risk
In a statement put out on Usdaw’s website, Bally Auluk – Usdaw national officer said, “With thousands of jobs on the line, it is an absolute disgrace that Gordon Brothers has failed to engage with us to seek a secure future for the business.
“Sources within the company are telling me that a decision about the future of Poundland could be made as early as tomorrow and there are deep concerns that the business could go into administration, which would be a disaster for our members.
“We are aware that a management buy-out has been attempted and we are told that their offers are being turned down.
“We found it difficult to understand why Poundland was being described as struggling, after the company recently announced they had returned to like-for-like sales growth and staff were being thanked for their ‘amazing efforts’.
“Gordon Brothers’ need to be open about their intentions and demonstrate their commitment to the business, which our members are successfully helping to turn around.
“The very least they should do is now engage with Usdaw to ensure that our members have a say in the future of their jobs.”
Poundland has confirmed that it is in talks with potential buyers as it looks to secure a rescue deal.
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The high street brand has been facing financial struggles for several years due to rising costs and competition.
But the chain expects sales to have grown more than 3% in 2026 compared to 2025, which managing director Barry Williams said was a sign its recovery plan “is working”.
Newsquest has contacted Poundland for a comment.
Would you be sad to see Poundland leave the high street? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
