The Guardian reported that a notice to appoint administrators for Poundland Ltd was filed Thursday, Oct. 29, opening a 10-business-day appointment window as up to 12,000 jobs across the U.K. and Ireland face potential risk.
Under Schedule B1 of the Insolvency Act 1986, the notice triggers an interim moratorium and starts the period for appointing an administrator. The filing itself does not put Poundland into administration.
The Guardian and ITV reported that Poundland operates about 600 stores across the U.K. and Ireland, including around 50 Dealz outlets in Ireland, according to The Guardian. The outlets reported that up to 12,000 jobs could be affected; that is a potential exposure figure, not a confirmed redundancy count. In a statement reported by Sky News, Poundland said its stores remained open as normal.
Gordon Brothers rejected a management-backed offer from Martin Property Group to buy the chain as a whole, The Guardian reported. Gordon Brothers had said its sale process drew interest in the entire business as well as offers for significant parts. ITV reported interest in parts from CDS Superstores, Fortress and Modella. ITV also reported that Poundland appointed AlixPartners as an adviser.
The filing follows an earlier review of sale offers. A 2025 High Court judgment said Poundland faced imminent insolvency without restructuring and refinancing; the court approved a plan that allowed the retailer to continue trading.
The appointment period runs for 10 business days from the notice. No buyer or administrator had been confirmed Thursday.
