Wilko stops key service as the race to save stores continues – shoppers will be devastated

WILKO has stopped a key service as the race to save stores intensifies after the chain fell into administration.

The store has stopped processing click-and-collect orders meaning shoppers can no longer order online and pick up the delivery in their nearest store.

It comes after the budget retailer failed to secure a rescue deal, putting around 12,500 jobs in jeopardy.

The discount store had already suspended its home delivery service before administrators were appointed.

A banner on the retailer's website reads: "Home delivery and click and collect are currently unavailable.

"You can still check stock in your local store before popping in."

You can find your nearest Wilko using the store locator tool on its website.

The chain, which runs more than 400 stores across the UK, told shoppers and staff on Thursday that it has hired administrators from PwC to oversee the process.

Wilko is continuing to trade from all its stores “without any immediate redundancies”, the administrators have said.

Today, The Sun revealed that a sale could come as early as the end of next week.

It is not yet known if a buyer could save stores and the brand, or could just purchase the brick and mortar sites to use as their own.

Or, a deal could include no stores at all, instead buying up the stock or brand name.

But one major discount chain has already ruled itself out of any potential rescue bid.

Sources at Poundstretcher told The Sun it has "no interest" in rescuing Wilko from administration.

Meanwhile, fellow discounters Home Bargains and Dunelm are among the retailers offering devastated Wilko staff a new role if stores do have to close.

Across social media shoppers have been sharing their emotional tributes to the discounter, with many comparing it to the loss of Woolworths.

Chief Executive Officer, Mark Jackson, said yesterday that the company had "left no stone unturned" in a bid to save the chain.

In an emotional open letter to all staff and heartbroken shoppers, Mr Jackson thanked them for their support.

Meanwhile, here is the full list of 400 Wilko stores at risk of closing.

For live updates keep an eye on our live blog.

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