Stornoway ex-Woolworths workers re-open closed store

Published on Friday 18 September 2009 13:31

FORMER Woolworths workers who lost their jobs when the high street giant folded in January today defied the recession to open a new store.

WeeW opened today in Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis, and will be managed by the same man who was at the helm when the island's store closed nine months ago.

Ex-workers of the town's shop are also among its staff and investors.

Named in homage to the retailer, WeeW will offer similar goods to before it closed its 815 stores in January with debts of 385 million.

Staff and investors said they hoped the new business would "fill the void" left by the retailer, create employment on the island and tempt shoppers back to the high street.

Manager Terry Ovenstone said there had been an "incredible" reaction to the opening of WeeW.

"We're amazed by the interest shown by islanders in this new venture," he said.

"The support has been incredible. There has been a constant buzz on the street outside the store and there's certainly a buzz inside the store."

He added: "Woolies was an institution in Stornoway, and the economic and social impact of its closure is still being felt.

"Opening day should be a special day in the town – it'll be the day we return Woolworths favourites to the town centre. We hope that the opening event will be one that is fondly remembered in the islands for years to come.

The opening of the new shop, which is on the same street as the old store, will create 28 jobs on the island, and was praised by the local authority, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

A council spokesman said the town was "delighted" to see WeeW opening in Stornoway.

"Everyone is pleased to see another business opening in the centre of town. Hopefully it will help with the regeneration of Stornoway town centre," he said.