Poundland closes 100 stores temporarily due to pandemic

The bargain stores have remained open throughout the UK lockdown, selling essential items to customers.

But plans have no changed as a selection of 100 stores are to be temporarily closing.

A spokesman for the company said this “hibernation period” was necessary while the country continues to impose social distancing and stay at home rules to keep the spread of COVID-19 under control.

Poundland to close 100 of its stores temporarily | PA (Press Association)

The supermarket chain outlined that the temporary closure of some stores will allow it to “provide better service to communities” while also putting the retailer in a better position for the business to recover once the current government measures are lifted.

It added shops set for closure are primarily those close to another fellow Poundland store on the same street or local area.

Poundland stores located inside shopping centres or arcades are also likely to be temporarily closed.

Staff working in branches set to be closed will either be moved to stores nearby. If not possible, the company said it will use the government’s furlough scheme to protect jobs for the future.