Poundland could fall into administration 'within days' as 12,000 jobs hang in the balance
From the Newshound archive · first published 13 October 2026 · last updated 14 October 2026.
Retail union Usdaw warns Gordon Brothers may force Poundland — reduced to 650 stores after around 150 closures — into administration as early as today, putting 12,000 jobs at risk.
Usdaw national officer Bally Auluk has warned that a decision on Poundland's future could come as early as today, with the union describing owner Gordon Brothers' failure to engage as an "absolute disgrace." The discount chain's 600 UK and Irish stores and 12,000 staff are at risk if rescue talks collapse. Management, led by Barry Williams, is pursuing a buyout with Irish real estate firm Martin Property Group, but Auluk says those offers are being turned down.
Rival bidders including Poundstretcher owner Fortress, Lakeland owner Hilco Capital, and Aldi and Lidl are also said to be circling parts of the business.
Poundland itself insists its recovery plan "is working," pointing to sales growth of more than 3% in 2026 and a return to profitability.
