Wilko: Shoppers react as closure of Basingstoke store looms

Wilkinson Hardware Stores Ltd, Wilko Ltd, and wilko.com Ltd, which are currently under administration, have been exploring options to save the business since Thursday, August 10.

While no date has yet been given for the closure of the store in The Malls it could close as early as next month. 

One person, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "I think it will be sad to see the store go, I've used it lots over the years for nearly everything - pet stuff, Christmas bits, baby bits, stationery. If you need anything you can get it in Wilko."

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When asked what she would like to see replace Wilko in the store, they said: "Realistically what are they going to put in there? It will most likely remain empty like most of the other shops.

Jean Marshall said: "I've used the store lots, and having a store like Wilko in the town centre is such a massive convenience for lots of people who can't travel out to the B&M's and The Range, which are all located outside of the town centre.

Administration sale at Wilko (Image: Lola Crossman)

"Debenhams has been shut and vacant for years, as has much of the upstairs in Festival Place. I expect they'll put something ridiculous in the store that no one will use."

Another resident added: "I've been in and out over the years and got to recognise a few people on the tills and I feel sorry for them. Wilko has been so useful. I have no idea what would replace it. Ideally, something similar to Wilko, with a good range of products would be great."

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Kim Payne and Andrea Graham said: "I think it's so sad to see it go. To be honest, my grandson used to work for Wilko, it's provided a lot of people with jobs, it provided him with a job, and was a great job for him. It's like Woolworths where you knew you could go in there and get odd bits and pieces you can't get anywhere else.

"If you needed anything, you knew you could get it at Wilko, so hopefully they replace with a similar sort of store. All the larger companies have gone away from the town centre and as a result the town struggles. 

"Really the whole thing is upsetting for the staff and we feel for them, they must feel so dejected."

Linda Pope said: "I'm choked about this, I really am. I've shopped there ever since I was young. When it's empty, it makes the whole area look bad.

"I'd love to see it replaced with something similar, instead of another clothes shop. Something that's suitable for all the youngsters and us oldies."