Usdaw blasts Poundland owner over administration fears and job losses
Retail union Usdaw has accused Gordon Brothers of refusing to engage as concerns grow that Poundland could enter administration, threatening around 12,000 jobs. The union said a management buy-out has been attempted but offers were rejected, and it questioned why the retailer was described as struggling after returning to like-for-like sales growth. An insolvency specialist noted Poundland was bought for £1 by Gordon Brothers and has already closed a fifth of its stores, cutting over 2,000 jobs.
Usdaw claims Gordon Brothers has not engaged in urgent discussions over Poundland’s future. The union says a management buyout was pursued, but its bids were rejected, and it questions why the chain is portrayed as struggling after reporting like-for-like sales growth and thanking staff.
Poundland was acquired by Gordon Brothers for £1 just over a year ago, with a £30m loan facility. The owner has already shut a fifth of stores, cutting more than 2,000 roles. Accounts for the year to September 2024 had overstated earlier sales by £60m. In August 2026, the company reported a return to profitability.
If Poundland enters administration, thousands of employees and their households could face income loss, while local high streets may lose accessible discount shopping. Suppliers and related businesses may also feel knock-on effects if payments stop. Some profitable stores might be bought, potentially preserving limited jobs, but uncertainty could weigh on staff, shoppers and communities until a buyer or investment emerges.