‘Genuine grounds for hope’ on Wilko, GMB union believes

The union made the comments following a meeting with Wilko’s administrators.

The retailer collapsed into administration earlier this month, raising doubts over the future of 12,000 staff and 400 stores, which are typically located on high streets. 

Administrator PwC is talking to potential buyers for all or part of Wilko and asked for bids to be submitted by close of business last Wednesday. 

Retailers including B&M and Poundland are thought to be interested. Distress investors such as Gordon Brothers and Hilco are also thought to have been casting their slide-rules over Wilko.

No decision on Wilko’s future is likely before next week and stores at present continue to trade.

GMB national secretary Andy Prendergast said today: “GMB has met with administrators and the company as part of the formal consultation process. 

“We can confirm there have been expressions of interest from organisations who are considering taking over at least some parts of the business. 

“These are still at an early stage but it means there are genuine grounds for hope.

“While this process continues, staff will continue to be paid and kept on. All stores are continuing to trade and deliveries of new stock will continue.”