Overview

• Poundland's parent company, Pepco Group, is advancing the sale process, with bids expected to be finalized on Monday, May 19, 2025.
• Gordon Brothers has emerged as the frontrunner among potential buyers, though other bidders, including Modella Capital and Hilco, remain in contention.
• The discount retailer, which employs over 18,000 people, has faced a 7.3% drop in like-for-like sales and rising operational costs, exacerbated by recent tax and wage increases.
• Bidders have identified up to 200 loss-making stores that could be closed, threatening thousands of jobs and further diminishing the UK high street presence.
• Pepco Group is seeking to offload Poundland for a nominal fee, citing the significant investment required to stabilize and turn around the business.