Video: Shelves empty with 70% off everything as My Local store prepares for closure

THE OWNER of the My Local convenience store chain has announced its intention to put the firm into administration, putting thousands of jobs at risk '“ but some buyers are interested in saving the business.
Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years agoStaff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago
Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago

Greybull Capital has lined up accountancy giant KPMG to act as administrator to its chain of more than 100 stores, which employ 2,300 people.

Meanwhile, video shot in Bristol shows a branch with almost empty shelves as a “70% off” closing down sale continues.

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My Local was sold to Greybull last year by supermarket Morrisons and has struggled to compete in the cut-throat grocery sector, which is embroiled in a bitter price war.

Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years agoStaff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago
Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago

The collapse caps a torrid few months for the retail sector, following on from the failures of BHS and Austin Reed,

Joanne McGuinness, national officer at union Usdaw, said: “My Local staff are devastated by the news that the company is going into administration.

“Having been sold by Morrisons last year, there was a 
mood of optimism that the new owners could turn around the business.

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“We are talking with the company in a bid to save jobs and get the best deal for staff.

Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years agoStaff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago
Staff at the opening of My Local (then Morrisons Local) in Harrogate, two years ago

“In the meantime Usdaw is providing the support, advice and representation they need at this unsettling time.”

KPMG will attempt to sell the business as a going concern but, if a buyer cannot be found, then the stores will be sold off piecemeal.

It is understood that potential buyers have expressed an interest in some stores.