Wilko stores to return to high streets by Christmas
Standalone Wilko stores are set to make their return to British high streets, as its new owner plans an aggressive store roll-out for the brand.
The Range owner CDS Superstores acquired the Wilko brand in September, following its collapse into administration in August.
The group is planning to open five new concept locations before Christmas, beginning in Plymouth and Exeter. These will be followed by two further openings in the south east of England and one in the north of England.
For the first time, Wilko is also set to open stores in Northern Ireland.
Earlier this month, CDS relaunched the Wilko website and introduced the brand’s products to a number of The Range Stores.
CDS chief executive Alex Simpkin said: “The public reaction to the loss of Wilko stores was undeniable. It’s clear that there’s a huge love for Wilko and we’ve seen an encouraging demand for the return of its own-brand products.
“That’s why we’ve taken the decision to reintroduce Wilko back to many of the high streets and communities that it used to so proudly serve.
“Our team from Wilko that joined us through the acquisition has shown true resilience, they’ve set to work to integrate the best parts of Wilko into The Range’s operational systems.”
The new stores are expected to take on a number of different formats, but all will be permanent fixtures. CDS is looking to open hundreds of these stores over the next few years.