Many high-street favourites have closed their doors over the past few decades.
Just last year, Wilko announced they would be closing after the company went into administration, with 52 stores shutting down across the UK.
And one shop that remains a distant memory to some of us is Woolworths.
The German-owned food, toys, clothes and homeware retailer and a staple of the UK noughties shopping scene entered insolvency back in 2009 – after 100 years of service – after the government that it was a “financially unviable” business.
All 807 high street stores closed within less than two months, and 27,000 jobs were lost due to the 2008 credit crunch.
So customers were forced to look elsewhere for their DVDs, pick ‘n’ mixes and kids’ clothes.
Despite its collapse in the UK, the retailer has remained successful in Austria and Poland.
However, a return to British high streets could be a possibility – if CEO Roman Heini achieves his ‘bucket list’.
As reported by the Daily Record, he said: “I don’t know of any brands where the recognition will be as high as it is in Britain, without having any stores.
“We have secured all the trademarks for the brand for the whole of Europe, so we could operate if we make the decision.
“It may be in the mix for the mid or long-term future.”
Speaking to Retail Week today, the retailing mogul – who previously fronted both Aldi and Lidl – explained: “There are over 300 million potential consumers in Europe and no dominating player.
“The market is still there to be divided between the potential players for the future.”
In 2020, former customers got a taste of nostalgia after it was announced that their world-famous pick ‘n’ mixes were being sold by online retailer Very.
The colossal jars – filled with sweet treats, including Black Jacks, Fruit Salads and Cola Bottles – were temporarily selling for £15.99 at the time – with 100 per cent of the profits going to charity partner Coram Beanstalk, who recruit, train and support volunteers to provide reading support to thousands of children in the UK.
Now, with the possibility of Woolworth’s return looming, shoppers are pretty thrilled, to say the least.
One person wrote on X (formerly Twitter): ” I just hope the German CEO goes ahead with the plans for Europe / UK. Woolworths brings back happy childhood memories. ”
Another teased: “Do you think I’ll get my Saturday job back ?!? ……. It’s been a while!”
A third said: “The expansion of the Aldi middle aisle into a whole shop.”
Source: newbpress.info
