Wilko is making a major change to stores - it's bad news for parents buying toys
Wilko is reducing the range of toys it sells in stores as it shifts its focus back to its “heritage” as a household and garden retailer.
The retailer made the announcement of the change in a letter to its suppliers, according to industry magazine Toy World.
The family-owned retailer has reportedly said the decision has been made as part of its “long-term strategic direction” and as a result of this focus, Wilko will “discontinue an all-year-round toy offer” in its stores.
Wilko however has offered a bit of reassurance to its toy suppliers as it said it would continue to offer “seasonal/outdoor toys” relevant to the time of year.
Wilk said it wanted to shift its focus back to its “heritage” as a household and garden retailer. (In Pictures via Getty Images)The popular retailer, which is the oldest family-owned business in the UK, then thanked its suppliers for their support and wished them well in the future.
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In a statement shared with Mirror Money, Wilko said: “To further focus on the household and garden products that our customers come to us for most often, we’re reducing our range of toys instore.
“However, we’ll still be providing seasonal toy products such as paddling pools and Christmas presents to help our customers find fun things to enjoy together during holiday periods.”
Wilko also said it would continue to offer customers a choice of "selected toys" on its website.
Earlier this month, the retailer managed to secure a £40million funding lifeline from the owner of Home Base and Cath Kidston Hilco UK.
In a statement to Sky News, Wilko confirmed the deal and said the deal came against a "backdrop of major supply chain disruption and significant footfall declines" on the high street.
It added: "Wilko recognises that it has not been performing to its full potential and is making strategic changes, including accelerating its omnichannel offer to turn around the business."
It also comes as 95 jobs were reported as being at risk as the firm opted to outsource its customer service operations.
Wilko confirmed that its contact centre in Worksop, Nottinghamshire was currently in a consultation process and the move was part of its plan to improve processes and efficiency.
Last January, Wilko announced it was going to close 15 sites across the UK as part of a review which was prompted by the number of leases coming to an end.
At the time, the retailer said it was to consult with landlords and work with staff about other opportunities.
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Founded as a hardware store in 1930, the discount retailer employs around 16,000 people and trades across the UK from around 400 stores.
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