Union chasing possible buyers for Wilko warehouses in bid to re-employ staff

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy A union representing thousands of Wilko staff has said there has been “some interest” from potential buyers to snap up the collapsed retailer’s warehouses. “We are pleased to say we have had some interest in this, and we will vigorously chase these up in the hope of gaining new opportunities for you.” Earlier this week, administrators from PwC said there would be 299 redundancies across two warehouse sites in Worksop and Newport. We make no apology for placing the blame squarely on the shoulders of the previous family director and board chair, and will continue to highlight her role in destroying what was a successful business whilst taking millions in dividends GMB Union GMB also criticised previous management of the beleaguered chain for failing to rescue the business and protect jobs. It said: “We make no apology for placing the blame squarely on the shoulders of the previous family director and board chair, and will continue to highlight her role in destroying what was a successful business whilst taking millions in dividends.” Lisa Wilkinson, granddaughter of the founder, stepped down as chairwoman of the board earlier this year after the group secured emergency cash funding in the hope of stabilising the business.