Poundland has confirmed the date that a store in a popular UK seaside town will close. Staff at the shop have been given notice of their redundancy after the budget chain was unable to “agree terms” for its existing lease.
The shop on Bank Street, in Newquay, Cornwall, will close its doors for good on August 1 despite locals claiming the store is regularly busy. A petition was previously launched to save the shop but Poundland has confirmed that it will now shut. The chain added that it is working to find other opportunities for staff.
As reported by Cornwall Live, a Poundland spokesperson said: “It’s correct our Newquay store is sadly set to close on 1 August as we’ve been unable to agree terms that would allow us to keep trading there.
“We’d obviously like to thank customers for their continued support over the next couple of months. It goes without saying whenever we close a store in circumstances like these, we do all we can to look for other opportunities for colleagues and that work is now underway.
“As you might imagine, with over 800 locations across the UK and Ireland, we constantly review our store portfolio as leases expire or come up for renewal.”
A petition, which has been signed by over 60 people, was launched by local resident Sharon Gill. It explains that the store is relied upon by residents and there are “limited” affordable shopping options nearby.
The petition reads: “Many residents count on Poundland for their everyday needs. The reality for most of us is that we don’t have the luxury of a car to travel to nearby towns.
“Our options are limited when it comes to affordable shopping. The nearest alternatives in St Austell or Truro are inconveniently far away, and public transport means hours of commute for essentials that should be easily accessible.”
It adds: “Poundland has been a steadfast part of our community here in Newquay, providing affordable essentials to all of us, from household items to groceries. The closure of our local store would force many into difficult positions, needing to stretch already tight budgets even further.
“The trend of closing stores in smaller towns not only affects the convenience of shopping but also impacts jobs and the community spirit that local businesses foster. Poundland’s presence in Newquay is vital, offering both employment and an accessible shopping option for those who need it most.
“To maintain the vibrancy and accessibility of our community, it is crucial that Newquay’s Poundland remains open. We need to stand together and let the decision-makers at Poundland know how essential this store is to our everyday lives. Please sign this petition to save our Poundland and help keep Newquay connected and thriving for everyone.”
It comes as the Poundland store in Surrey Quays, London, will close on Wednesday, June 11. Its shop in Cowes, Isle of Wight, will also shut next month.
Poundland has sustained a tough period for business. Its parent company Pepco Group are now looking to sell the brand.
