Business

Council in talks with The Range over possible takeover of former Neath Wilko store

Neath Port Talbot Council has announced it is in detailed discussions with major home, garden and leisure retailer The Range about taking over the lease of the vacant former Neath town centre Wilko store.

Published

2 months ago

6th October 2023

Editor

Last month it was announced Wilko stores would disappear from UK high streets after a rescue deal for the chain fell through.

The Range is a successful, multi-channel retailer selling products in the home, garden, DIY and leisure categories, with more than 210 stores in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The company recently bought Wilko’s brand name and website, but not any physical stores.

The council has said that discussions are ongoing with regards reopening the former Neath Wilko store, rebranded as The Range.

The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt, has welcomed the news.

Speaking on Friday, October 6th, 2023, he said: “We are delighted to hear our officers are now in negotiations with the owners of the Range over the lease of the former Wilko store in the centre of Neath.

“Coming so soon after the closure of this flagship store and at a time when high streets across the UK are struggling this is very encouraging news,”

Neath Port Talbot Council is also in talks with a start-up company which offers soft play facilities for children over the potential takeover of the vacant Unit 2 in the Neath Town Centre Leisure and Retail Development, close to the former Wilko store.

(Lead image: Neath Port Talbot Council)