Is Poundland Stores Closing Down? | Full List and the Reason Behind It

Poundland has been a familiar presence on British high streets for decades, offering budget-friendly essentials and household goods. But now, shoppers across the UK are asking a pressing question: is Poundland closing down?

With announcements of widespread store closures and operational changes, it’s clear that a major transformation is underway.

This article explores the full list of closures, the business decisions behind them, and what it means for shoppers and employees alike.

Why Is Poundland Closing 68 Stores in the UK?

The closure of 68 Poundland stores forms part of a large-scale restructuring plan introduced to rescue the struggling discount chain.

These closures follow a turbulent period marked by falling sales, rising costs, and outdated store operations. The move is aimed at ensuring financial stability and helping the company recover under new ownership.

Key reasons behind the closures include:

• Streamlining operations and cutting underperforming locations
• Adapting to new consumer shopping patterns
• Reducing rent costs on numerous properties
• Responding to competitive pressure from supermarkets and online retailers

Additionally, Poundland will be closing two of its UK warehouses, Darton in South Yorkshire and Bilston in the West Midlands.

The goal is to consolidate distribution and cut logistics expenses. The company estimates that the overhaul will reduce its UK store count from around 800 to between 650 and 700, although Irish stores remain unaffected by the closures.

What Triggered Poundland’s Store Closures and Restructure?

Poundland’s restructuring was sparked by multiple internal and external factors. Financially, the retailer had been underperforming for several years, culminating in a 6.5% drop in revenue during the six months leading up to March 2025.

Alongside falling sales, the business faced increasing operating costs due to inflation and higher National Insurance contributions.

Attempts to diversify the brand, like introducing frozen food and launching an online shopping platform, failed to gain traction.

As customer behaviour continued to evolve, Poundland struggled to remain competitive. The result was a business model in urgent need of a reset, leading to the decision to close stores and refocus its strategy.

Who Bought Poundland and What Does It Mean for the Future?

Poundland was sold for a nominal fee of £1 by its previous owner, Pepco Group, to US-based investment firm Gordon Brothers.

Known for turning around struggling brands, Gordon Brothers was the former owner of Laura Ashley and has committed up to £80 million to help revive Poundland’s operations.

The new owners plan to focus on core retail strengths by simplifying the product range, eliminating underperforming departments, and introducing operational efficiencies.

Gordon Brothers also pledged to preserve Poundland’s brand identity while adapting it to meet changing consumer expectations.

This acquisition aims to stabilise the company and return it to profitability through a mix of investment and restructuring.

Which Poundland Stores Are Closing? – Full Updated List

Poundland has confirmed that 68 stores will be closing as part of its restructuring. These closures have been scheduled throughout 2024 and 2025, affecting locations across the UK. Some have already shut their doors, while others are due to close in the coming months.

Here is the updated list of closures:

Are More Poundland Stores at Risk of Closing?

Yes, in addition to the confirmed closures, another 70 stores may be at risk due to expiring leases and ongoing rent renegotiations. Poundland is actively working to secure rent reductions at dozens of locations, but the success of these efforts will influence how many additional outlets will shut down.

The company expects to operate between 650 and 700 stores post-restructure. Currently, it runs around 800 in the UK and Ireland.

While Irish branches are unaffected, UK locations remain under scrutiny as part of this ongoing review. The final outcome depends on creditor approval and the overall effectiveness of the cost-saving plan.

Which Poundland Stores Are Closed in September 2025?

Poundland has confirmed that six of its branches will close across the UK later this month as part of its restructuring plan. The retailer, founded in Burton in 1990, once operated nearly 800 outlets at its peak but is now aiming to bring that number down to between 650 and 700 stores following its acquisition by Gordon Brothers in June.

All six stores will close their doors on Sunday, September 28, 2025, marking another wave of reductions under the approved restructuring plan.

Poundland has also indicated that 10 further stores are likely to be named for closure soon, alongside plans to shut two major distribution centres in early 2026.

Is Your Local Poundland Store on the Closure List?

Many local communities are now wondering whether their neighbourhood Poundland is at risk. The confirmed list covers a wide range of locations, including urban high streets and shopping centres.

However, not every store earmarked for potential closure has been publicly named. Poundland has stated that more locations could be announced pending lease reviews and legal proceedings.

Customers are encouraged to monitor updates regularly, particularly if their store is in an area with previous closures or known financial difficulties. For now, all stores remain open until the High Court’s final decision.

How to Check If Your Store is Closing?

If you’re unsure whether your local Poundland will close, there are several ways to stay informed.

Ways to Find Out:

• Visit Poundland’s official website, where store closure updates are often published for public access.
• Follow the brand’s verified social media accounts for real-time announcements and official statements.
• Stop by the store and look for any posted closure notices, or speak directly with staff members for clarity.
• Stay alert through local news platforms, which often cover regional retail changes and high street updates.
• Take note of reduced stock availability or shorter opening hours, these can signal an upcoming closure.
• If you’ve signed up for Poundland’s loyalty scheme or email marketing, watch for personalised closure notifications.

Keeping track through multiple sources helps ensure you receive accurate, up-to-date information about your store’s status.

How Will This Restructure Impact Poundland Employees?

Poundland’s restructuring will significantly affect its workforce. With over 16,000 employees across the UK, approximately 1,300 jobs are expected to be impacted. This includes 350 roles from warehouse closures and around 1,000 in retail positions.

Impacted areas include:

• Store closures resulting in redundancy for retail staff
• Warehouse staff in Darton and Bilston losing positions
• Reduction in digital and frozen food teams due to service discontinuation

While no specific numbers for store-based redundancies have been released, Poundland has promised to support affected employees.

This includes redeployment opportunities where available and assistance with the redundancy process. The full extent of staff cuts will depend on the court’s decision and ongoing restructuring phases.

Is Poundland Still a Popular High Street Retailer?

Poundland remains one of the UK’s most recognised discount retailers, with over 20 million shoppers annually. However, its popularity has declined in recent years due to increased competition and evolving consumer habits.

Supermarkets, value-focused chains like Aldi and Lidl, and online platforms like Shein and Temu have drawn many budget-conscious shoppers away.

Retail experts say that Poundland’s lack of differentiation and failed product expansions contributed to its downturn.

The company’s previous attempts to modernise, including fashion and frozen foods, did not resonate with core customers. Despite these challenges, it still holds a strong place in UK high streets and may rebound with the right strategy.

What Happens Next with Poundland’s Restructuring Plan?

The next step in Poundland’s recovery hinges on court approval of its restructuring proposal. A formal decision from the High Court is expected in late summer 2025.

If approved, the business will begin implementing the full scope of changes, including closures, rent negotiations, and supply chain adjustments.

In parallel, Poundland will refocus its efforts on core products like essentials, the £3 meal deal, and expanding women’s fashion. Its digital transformation will also shift from ecommerce to a branding and promotion-only website.

These steps are designed to make the business leaner, more responsive to market conditions, and better equipped for the future.

Conclusion

Poundland is not shutting down entirely, but it is undergoing significant changes that will affect stores, employees, and shoppers across the UK. With 68 confirmed closures and up to 70 more under review, the company is attempting a comeback under new ownership.

The restructuring plan may help rescue the brand from its financial struggles, but its long-term success will depend on how effectively it adapts to the evolving retail landscape.

For now, customers should stay updated and prepare for changes at their local Poundland stores.

FAQs About Poundland Stores Closure

Will Poundland honour gift cards during store closures?

Yes, Poundland has confirmed that gift cards will remain valid and redeemable in all operating stores. You should use them promptly if your local store is affected by closure.

Are there any alternatives to Poundland for low-cost essentials?

Shoppers can explore alternatives like B&M, Home Bargains, and Savers for similar discount products. Many of these stores continue to expand across the UK.

Has Poundland faced financial trouble before 2025?

Poundland has experienced challenges during the pandemic and recent inflation surges. However, this is the first major restructuring under Pepco’s strategic oversight.

Can affected employees transfer to other Poundland stores?

Where possible, Poundland is offering staff opportunities to transfer to nearby branches. However, this is subject to availability and distance.

How has online shopping influenced Poundland’s performance?

The rise of e-commerce has impacted footfall in high street discount stores like Poundland. Many shoppers now prefer online platforms for convenience and price comparison.

Are new Poundland stores still opening despite closures?

Yes, while some stores are closing, Poundland has announced plans to open new locations in key areas. These moves are aimed at optimising performance and reach.

Is Poundland still offering £1 deals amidst restructuring?

Poundland continues to offer value-for-money items, including its iconic £1 deals. However, product variety and pricing may vary across locations due to supply dynamics.

Read Next:

• Tesco Store Closures 2025 | Which Stores Are Shutting Across the UK?
• The Original Factory Shop Closures 2025 | Is This the End for Some Town Shops?
• Greggs Store Closures | Why 56 Stores Shut Down Across the UK in 2025?
• Beaverbrooks Store Closures 2025 | Timeline, Reasons, and What’s Next?
• New Look Store Closures 2025 | Are New Look Shops Closing Down?