AN update has been issued on the empty shelves spotted at Wilko as the bargain chain’s future hangs in the balance.
Sources have told The Sun that the chain is planning to restock shelves at all of its 400 stores next week as the new sale starts.
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It comes as shoppers have been left disappointed after spotting bare aisles in their local shop, despite its administration sale launching this week.
Fresh stock is being ordered currently and shops will see their aisles replenished as early as Monday.
Over the last few days shoppers have taken to social media to complain after finding empty shelves in their local store, despite an “administration sale” being underway.
One wrote: “Hardly anything left on the shelves pity they didn’t support before the announcement.”
Another said: “Nothing in Redhill either, apart from empty shelves.”
A third posted: “Well sorry to say you’ll not find a lot in the shop for the sale unless you want a lot of empty shelves that is.”
And a fourth commented: “Just went into Wilko and it’s half empty.”
So the news of new items being brought in to restock shelves will be welcomed by shoppers hoping to snap up bargains in the new sale.
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Sale items which will be up for grabs include Christmas decorations, homeware, garden essentials and toys.
Each of the ranges will have different discounts applied from 20% to 50%.
You can find your nearest Wilko by using the handy store locator tool on the website.
Do bear in mind that the sale is only available in-store as Wilko has now stopped processing click and collect and delivery orders.
It comes as administrators are said to be considering rescue bids from “several” interested buyers.
PwC, the administrators in charge of Wilko, had given potential buyers until 5pm on Wednesday to make any indicative offers.
The Sun previously reported that one potential bidder in particular could save as many as 300 branches from closing down and would preserve the most jobs.
But it is understood that early expressions of interest were mixed, and the majority of offers are for between 40 to 50 stores.
The Sun understands one of the potential bidders would be keen to keep the Wilko name.
But even if a buyer is found, the insolvency process means that a buyer can pick and choose the parts of a business it wants.
Discount retailers B&M, The Range, Poundland and Home Bargains have all expressed an interest, according to sources – but they would have needed to officially throw their hats in the ring today.
The bids will take time to process and an announcement of a decision on Wilko’s future is unlikely to come this week.
Chief Executive Officer, Mark Jackson, said last week that the company had “left no stone unturned” in a bid to save the chain.
In an emotional open letter to all 12,500 staff and heartbroken shoppers, Mr Jackson thanked them for their support.
Meanwhile, shoppers have been sharing their heartfelt tributes to the discounter, with many comparing it to the loss of Woolworths.
Plus, for more information on the new sale hitting stores this week see our story.
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