Dave Gill - Usdaw National Officer says: “We have been in discussions with Poundland about the situation at Poundworld and the concerns that staff have about the future of their jobs. At the moment we are hopeful that the administrators can find a buyer for Poundworld, but if the worst should happen and there are store closures, Usdaw is working to secure alternative employment opportunities with other retailers. Poundland’s offer is very welcome.

“Poundland and Usdaw have a recognition agreement, which means that staff have a voice in their workplace through an independent trade union that works with the employer to improve terms and conditions of employment. Unfortunately Poundworld did not recognise Usdaw, so most of their staff are not in a union and therefore do not have the support and advice they need at this difficult time.

“We hope the administrator will turn their back on Poundworld’s historical anti-union stance and engage with us to help save jobs.”

Writing on ‘Linked-in’ Austin Cooke - Retail Director at Poundland UK & Ireland said: “I’ve thought long and hard about how I communicate this because I don’t want to appear insensitive. However we’re acutely aware that members of the Poundworld team – in Head Office and particularly in shops – are facing tough times right now, with the press speculating that over 100 of their shops could close.

“Here at Poundland we don’t know which stores Poundworld are planning to close if their proposal to restructure the business gets approved, but we’ve set up a special email ([email protected]) for affected colleagues to get in touch.

“If we have a local Poundland store, we’d always be interested in meeting you. In fact if you’re affected and we’re also nearby, we guarantee you an interview, please don’t be shy about getting in touch and we’ll get straight back to you. We can’t promise you a role, but we will certainly consider you for one if the opportunity arises. Best wishes to all those who may be affected. Austin.”

Notes for editors:
 
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest and the fastest growing trade union with around 430,000 members. Membership has increased by more than 28% over the decade. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.
 
For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter @UsdawUnion