Well-known high street “value” retailer, Poundland has announced the official date of closure for its Craigavon-based store.
The UK-based giant – which currently occupies a sizeable unit within Rushmere Retail Park – is to downsize its operations as part of a “restructuring and recovery” plan launched in June.
The Craigavon store will close its doors for a final time on August 17, 2025 under the new plans despite having only taken over the unit following Menarys closure in 2021.
Poundland’s scheme – designed to “refocus and simplify the business” – hopes to see the company overturn a period of under-performance and create a more sustainable future for the brand.
Sixty-eight stores are expected to close – some connected to lease expirations – with Poundland anticipating a reduction in their network from 800 stores to a more manageable 650 – 700.
A Poundland spokesperson said staff within stores earmarked for closure had been informed of plans in June and that the company, last week completed briefing colleagues on specific closing dates for the first 25 locations.
In the last number of years Rushmere Shopping Centre has benefitted from multi-million pound investment delivered under its new ownership.
There has been significant refurbishment undertaken throughout the centre and the introduction of several top brands including Primark, Waterstones, Schuh, Mango and Søstrene Grene.
Customers will also have noticed increased shopper engagement with the implementation of an events calendar scheduled throughout the year.
A new £1.7m access road is also currently under construction and – once complete – it is anticipated that the new access will significantly reduce road congestion on the approach to the main entrance roundabout.
Much speculation surrounds what plans centre management have for the soon-to-be-vacant Poundland unit with some hopeful shoppers suggesting that fashion and homeware retailer, Next will take the opportunity to expand into the neighbouring premises.
Armagh I have contacted Rushmere Shopping Centre for comment.
