Poundland could fall into administration 'within days' as 12,000 jobs hang in the balance across 600 stores

Around 12,000 workers face redundancy across Poundland's 600 UK stores after rescue talks collapsed and trade union Usdaw warned a decision on the chain's future could come within days.

Rescue talks for Poundland are on the brink of collapse after a rival withdrew its takeover bid, leaving around 12,000 workers facing redundancy across the chain's 600 UK stores. Owner Gordon Brothers acquired the discount retailer for just £1 in summer 2025 before immediately returning it to the market. A management buyout led by Poundland managing director Barry Williams and Andy Bond, the former chief executive of Asda, has also ended without a deal. Trade union Usdaw warns a decision on the company's future could come within days.

Gordon Brothers has been accused of refusing to engage with union representatives during the crisis talks.

Usdaw says sources inside the company fear administration is the most likely outcome, calling it 'a disaster for our members'.

Nine Lancashire branches are among those at risk, including stores in Blackpool, Preston, Burnley and Accrington.

The SunPoundland on brink of COLLAPSE as rival withdraws rescue deal for 530 stores GB NewsPoundland on brink of collapse as rival withdraws rescue bid for 530 stores Express & StarFears grow for future of West Midlands headquartered discount chain Poundland as rescue talks continue EasternEyePoundland Could Face Administration Within Days as 12,000 Jobs Hang in the Balance - EasternEye BdailyPoundland takeover talks continue despite administration fears - Bdaily Lancashire TelegraphPoundland could enter administration ‘within days’ - with 9 Lancashire sites at risk LBCPoundland takeover talks continue despite union concerns

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