Poundland places jobs at risk as it restructures head office

Poundland has confirmed the restructuring of its head office in Walsall, as it plans to reduce costs across the business.

The value retailer is said to have placed a number of jobs under consultation in an effort to work "smarter and more efficiently".

A spokesperson for Poundland told TheIndustry.fashion: "Providing the amazing value we promise our customers, depends on us delivering a business that is simple and efficient, so our costs are as low as possible.

"As part of a recent review, we took action last month to make sure we continued to deliver for customers, removing some central roles where we saw an opportunity to work smarter and more efficiently.

"It goes without saying we're doing all we can to look after colleagues affected."

Last month, Poundland owner Pepco reported a sales slump over the latest quarter, partly driven by delays in summer stock reaching its stores due to Red Sea shipping disruption.

The retail group had been hampered by volatility in the region, with many shipping firms having to redirect cargo around the foot of Africa following attacks by Houthi rebels.

It came as Pepco revealed that group like-for-like sales dropped 4.3% over the quarter. This was even greater across its Poundland stores, which reported a 6.9% decline in like-for-like sales.

The company said this was largely due to challenges linked to the launch of new clothing and general merchandise ranges from its Pepco business, which are "being addressed".