Woolworths recorded its biggest-ever trading yesterday as the defunct retailer launched a closing down sale across the 800-store chain.

Hundreds of shoppers queued outside the stores before they opened to bag themselves a bargain. Some branches were forced to close early due to empty shelves.

Many of the shoppers were, however, disappointed that the bargains promised were not as great as advertised. The promotions read “all items up to 50 per cent off” but inside shoppers were dismayed to find some items were just 30 per cent off. According to reports, a source close to Deloitte said it had been Woolworths’ biggest trading day ever.

Woolworths’ 30,000 staff have been told they could be out of work before the end of December if buyers for the stores are not found.

Approaches for the business as a going concern are looking less likely to happen. Former Tottenham Hotspur vice chairman David Buchler and former Kingfisher boss Sir Geoff Mulcahy had been in the running. Mulcahy has been working with former Marks & Spencer and Wyevale director Barry Stevenson and former B&Q executive Martin Toogood on the offer.

Topics