Call for action follows closure news

General union GMB has called for action on retail leases and rents after the announcement that homeware chain Wilko is to close 16 stores across the UK, putting over 330 jobs at risk.

Roger Jenkins, GMB national officer, said: “These closures are devastating for Wilko workers and the communities who use them. It’s yet another nail in the high street’s coffin and GMB calls on councils and landlords to review commercial leases and offer lower rents.

“Empty high streets and shopping centres are in no one’s interest but with 400 shops a week closing, this is inevitable – unless the costs of premises can be reduced.

“GMB will now meet with Wilko members to discuss our next steps.”

https://www.gmb.org.uk/news/wilko-close-16-stores-another-nail-high-streets-coffin