The chain plunged into administration in January (Image: Getty)
A major high street retailer has begun a closing down sale at one of its stores after entering administration in January. The Original Factory Shop is holding a closing down sale at its store in Bridgnorth, Shropshire with most of departments on sale. Shoppers can get 30% off all toys while stocks last, as well as 20% off wool and ladies’ fashion. Earlier this month, the Bridgnorth store also told customers on Facebook that it was offering 10% off gardening products, plastic storage items, and selected branded footwear, including lines from Adidas and Skechers. As with the other offers, discounts apply while current stock lasts.
The store wrote on Facebook: “We are still receiving a large amount of questions regarding a closing day. As yet we are still unaware of a timeframe and I will update as soon as I can. But in the mean time we are still receiving some great stock in at amazing discounted prices so pop in to grab some bargains whilst we are still here.”
READ MORE: Full list of 136 The Original Factory Shop stores at risk after four close
READ MORE: Full list of 9 UK high street giants that went into administration in January
A number of stores remain open as administrators assess options for the business. (Image: Getty)
Following The Original Factory Shop falling into administration at the end of January, the Bridgnorth branch shared an update with customers on Facebook on January 31.
The Facebook post reads: “Dear customers. As I’m sure you are by now all aware the original factory shop went into administration last Wednesday. Upon this news we are now running a closing down sale across most departments in the store (exclusions apply).
“This is a very difficult time for my team who everyday have strived to serve our customers with great passion, respect and incredible professionalism.
“With this is in mind I ask that this same respect is given to these amazing colleagues who remain determined to bring excellent service to our customers in what is very uncertain and challenging times for them.
“So we have been asked when our last day trading will be and my answer to this is we are as yet unaware of this answer, it could be days/weeks so I will update via Facebook any future information. Thank you all for your support in our time here and we hope to see you all throughout this process even if just to say hello.”
Many shared their support to the team in the comment section.
One person wrote: “Thinking of you and all your fabulous team during this difficult time. It will be a huge loss to the town to lose you all. Always so helpful and friendly. Wishing you all the very best for the future, whatever that looks like.”
Another added: “Such a great loss to the town will miss all the lovely staff good luck to you all.”
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The first closure has already taken place in Prudhoe, Northumberland. A further three stores in Northern Ireland are also set to close imminently, located in Ballycastle and Portrush in County Antrim, as well as Warrenpoint in County Down, The Mirror reported.
Founded in 1969, The Original Factory Shop fell into administration at the end of January putting 1,180 jobs at risk. The business had 137 stores at the time of the announcement. The discount retailer has brought in administrators from Interpath Advisory to manage the insolvency process.
Rick Harrison, managing director at Interpath and joint administrator, said: “The Original Factory Shop has long-been a cornerstone of local high streets up and down the country.
“Unfortunately, however, trading challenges have impacted the business such that the company had to be placed into administration.
“Over the coming weeks, we will be working closely with TOFS dedicated team of employees as we endeavour to operate all stores as a going concern while we assess options for the business.”