Woolworths is set to return to British high streets 15 years after the final branch closed.
The chain left British high streets in 2009, closing its 807 branches across the country.
Now Woolworths might be making a comeback as the German CEO Roman Heini says new UK stores are on his “bucket list.”
The CEO is leading an expansion of Woolworth Germany in Europe and has not ruled out the possibility of new stores in Britain.
Woolworths closed its doors in 2009
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Heini said: “I don’t know of any brands where the recognition will be as high as it is in Britain, without having any stores.
“We have secured all the trademarks for the brand for the whole of Europe, so we could operate if we make the decision. It may be in the mix for the mid or long-term future.”
Speaking to trade mag Retail Week, Heini added: “There are over 300 million potential consumers in Europe and no dominating player.
“The market is still there to be divided between the potential players for the future.”
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The new German CEO has recognised the potential of the brand on UK High Streets
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The news was met positively on social media, with people excited for the potential return of ‘Wollies’ to High Streets.
One person wrote: “Yes please! Bring back our Woolies!”
Another added: “Oh yes please-I miss Woolworths.” with another user posting: “The planet is healing!”
Woolworth Germany also collapsed into insolvency in 2009. However, the German branch made a comeback, expanding into Austria and Poland. It has more than 600 shops, does not sell online and specialises in own-brand household goods and clothing, including underwear.
Woolworths stores across the country were left abandoned
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The store was most well known for its pick-n-mix sweets and bargain buys.
However, following the global recession, the store fell into financial troubles and went into administration.
On December 17 2008, it was announced that all 807 Woolworths stores would close by January 5 2009. This was later revised to January 6. It was also announced there would be 27,000 job losses.