Wilko bosses should be made to answer to MPs, says union

Wilko bosses must be hauled before Parliament’s Business and Trade Select Committee to give evidence over the firm’s collapse, a union has said.

The GMB union has written to newly-elected select committee chair Liam Byrne MP to call for a special emergency session of the committee to hold Wilko chiefs to account.

Worksop-based discount high street retailer Wilko went bust earlier this year, leaving more than 10,000 workers without a job.

The union says that Wilko bosses paid out £77m in dividends to themselves and shareholders during the past decade.

Nadine Houghton, national officer, said: “From ignoring clear warnings about the business’ future, to dishing out millions in payouts for owners and shareholders, Wilko management has failed at every turn.

“The collapse of Wilko isn’t just a tragedy for its loyal workforce, it will also add to the decline of high streets across the country.

“Wilko workers deserve answers from the company that crushed their livelihoods.

“The new select committee chair should call an urgent emergency session on Wilko to demand those answers.”

Wilko administrators, PwC, declined to comment on the union’s calls.

Meanwhile, the resurrected Wilko brand is set to open three new concept stores, with locations and opening dates now confirmed.

The new owner, CDS Superstores, which also owns The Range, has recently announced its plans to launch five concept stores just before Christmas, with a broader expansion set for the following year

The company plans to hire up to 80 local employees for each store, giving priority to former Wilko staff in the hiring process.

These stores will offer a wide range of Wilko-branded products and self-service terminals.

This initial launch marks the beginning of a series of store openings set to continue into 2024.

Notably, this marks the first time in Wilko’s history that they will establish a presence on Northern Ireland’s high streets.

Armada Shopping Centre in Plymouth and the Guildhall Shopping Centre in Exeter will welcome customers on December 1st.

Meanwhile, another store will be making its first appearance at the Arndale Centre in Luton on December 8th.

The other two stores will be announced at a later date.

CDS Superstores CEO Alex Simpkin said: “This initial rollout is only the beginning of our plans for revitalising the Wilko brand on the nation’s high streets and retail parks, and we’ll be announcing further store launches and re-openings throughout 2024”.

In the previous month, Wilko introduced the relaunch of its website, following its acquisition by a new owner after being rescued from administration back in September