Poundstretcher with 300 stores across UK saved from collapse after 3,000 jobs at risk

Poundstretcher with 300 stores across UK saved from collapse after 3,000 jobs at risk The budget store had been on the brink of collapse, with the chain claiming it would have "no choice" but to enter administration had a court-approved rescue deal not been agreed A major budget retailer has been rescued from the brink of collapse after a court gave the green light to a rescue deal. Poundstretcher, which operates more than 300 stores across the UK, had its restructuring plan approved today. The news comes as a huge relief for the chain, which warned it would have had "no choice" but to enter administration had the deal fallen through. Poundstretcher has struggled considerably since 2020, battling soaring operational costs, mounting inflationary pressures, and a dip in customer confidence. These ongoing difficulties left the chain in an incredibly precarious position. Earlier this year, Poundstretcher told the High Court that it had "insufficient funds" for the £2.8 million owed in late June, and without intervention, that figure would have ballooned to £9.7 million by the end of July. The court was told that had the restructuring plan been rejected, Poundstretcher would have been forced into insolvency, with its stores only remaining open until the last of its remaining stock had been sold off, reports the Express. With the restructuring plan now in motion, 300 stores and 3,000 jobs have been secured. As part of the shake-up, landlords will be required to accept reduced rents, while the discount retailer must commit to its operational turnaround, according to The Sun. Poundstretcher has pledged to keep investing in its product ranges, stores, and overall shopping experience, reaffirming its commitment to delivering great products at affordable prices. Chief executive Andy Atkinson said: "Today, our company is in a stronger position to continue investing in our stores, our people and the overall customer experience. "Our priority now is exactly what it has always been - ensuring our customers across the UK have access to great products at great value."