Job fears as Focus DIY stores set to close

The stores in Didcot and Wantage are thought to be part of 120 across the UK that will be shut and the stock liquidated with the loss of 51 jobs.

A third store in Witney is understood to have been bought by rival retailer B&Q, although the 36 staff there are still unclear about their future.

One worker at the Didcot store who declined to be named, said: “We have not heard anything and we are just getting on with the day job.”

Vicky Conybeer, spokesman for administrators Ernst & Young, said: “We are continuing to speak to interested parties but we have started the process of liquidating the stock.”

The private equity-owned firm, which ran 175 stores and employed 3,920 staff, fell into administration earlier this month.

At total of 55 stores have been sold off to B&Q owner Kingfisher, Wickes and discount retailer B&M Retail, but the Didcot and Wantage stores are understood not to have been part of any deal.

Now the administrators have appointed retail consultants Gordon Brothers to advise on the sale of all stock of the Focus DIY stores, with a view to closing down the retail chain.

The closing down sale begins this weekend with discounts across all stock lines.

Simon Allport, joint administrator, said: “We have been working hard to sell the business as a going concern and to maximise value for creditors. While we have been successful in securing up to 900 jobs from the sale of 55 stores in three separate deals, finding a buyer for the whole of the business has not been possible.

“UK retailers are facing one of the most challenging retail environments in recent times and the DIY sector has become highly competitive, with only the strongest players being able to survive.”

Mr Allport added staff would be offered support through the redundancy process and Jobcentre Plus representatives will be on hand to help find future employment.

Any customers concerned about orders should call 0800 436 436 or 01270 503454.