Longton’s Woolworths store closed its doors on December 30, 2008
Much-missed retailer Woolworths could be set to return to our high streets. The German CEO who now runs the brand is eyeing a potential resurrection of stores in Britain.
Roman Heini is currently leading an expansion of Woolworth Germany in Europe and says new UK shops are on his “bucket list”. The popular stores – famed for their pick and mix sweet counters – vanished from our town centres when the British firm went into administration back in 2009 after 100 years.
Mr Heini said: “I don’t know of any brands where the recognition will be as high as it is in Britain, without having any stores. We have secured all the trademarks for the brand for the whole of Europe, so we could operate if we make the decision.
“It may be in the mix for the mid or long-term future.” Woolworth Germany also collapsed into insolvency in 2009 but made a comeback, expanding into Austria and Poland.
It has over 600 shops, does not sell online and specialises in own-brand household goods and clothing, including underwear. Mr Heini, previously boss of Aldi and Lidl, told trade mag Retail Week: “There are over 300 million potential consumers in Europe and no dominating player. The market is still there to be divided between the potential players for the future.”
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