Poundland workers in Aberystwyth had arrived at work as usual over the weekend but could not get in
Poundland store on Great Darkgate Street Aberystwyth (Image: Morgan & Davies Estate Agents )
Peacocks have hit back after Poundland staff were locked out of a Welsh store when they turned up for work on Saturday.
North Wales Live yesterday reported that Poundland workers in Aberystwyth had arrived at work as usual over the weekend. But they found the locks had been changed and an eviction notice posted on the door.
The discount brand has had a shop on Great Darkgate Street in Aberystwyth for more than 15 years.
But in August it was announced that Peacocks had bought the unit after it went on the market with Morgan & Davies estate agents. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
Yesterday, Poundland told North Wales Live: “Despite our best efforts to ensure there could be an orderly close down in December, within the rules of a court-approved restructure plan agreed in August 2025, the landlord has now unilaterally changed the locks at the store, preventing us from accessing the premises on Saturday (17 October).
“We think this was unnecessary and discourteous to our colleagues, and we know how disappointing this will be to them, and our customers in Aberystwyth.”
But Peacocks have now responded.
A spokesperson said: “Formal notice was served on the Aberystwyth Poundland store in accordance with the court-ordered Restructuring Plan, giving them more than 60 days’ notice to vacate. This expired on 16th October 2026.
“Under the terms of the Restructuring Plan, Poundland’s rent was reduced to zero, meaning it has benefited from paying no rent at this store for over 12 months. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone
“We offered Poundland the opportunity to continue trading for an extended period, subject to agreement on rental terms. Unfortunately, an agreement could not be reached, and we therefore had to proceed with our plans for the unit.
“We recognise that this has been a difficult situation, particularly for the store’s employees. While communication with employees regarding the closure was a matter for Poundland, we appreciate the uncertainty this may have caused and welcome the opportunity for former Poundland employees to apply for roles at our new store.
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“We look forward to opening Peacocks in Aberystwyth and becoming part of the local community. We expect to have nine positions available and would encourage anyone interested in joining our team to apply by emailing Demi-Leigh.Mahoney@peacocks.co.uk ”
Poundland have been asked if they want to respond.
Poundland has about 600 stores in the UK and Ireland, and 12,000 employees. The chain has been struggling for a number of years due to pressures including rising costs and competition.
The current owners are in the process of seeking buyers, with the Poundland management attempting a buyout.