BLOCKBUSTER are the latest in a chain of Driffield stores to announce their closure this month.
The Joint Administrators to the video store chain confirmed plans on January 19 to close 129 stores over the coming weeks as part of a phased closure of which the Driffield store on Middle Street South will be one.
These closures will be made in addition to 31 which had already been put on notice of closure.
Blockbuster were unable to release figures detailing the job losses faced at the Driffield store but a spokesperson for the company said that each store has approximately five employees.
The Joint Administrators continue to review the profitability of the store portfolio and announcements of further closures may be made in coming weeks.
Whilst staff in those stores affected by the closures will be facing redundancy, the closures are not taking place with immediate effect. A dedicated employee helpline is in place and the Company is running an Employee Assistance Programme to help those staff facing redundancy find other jobs.
Stores will remain open for business as usual and customers will be notified in advance of closure so that they can return their outstanding rental items beforehand. The standard terms and conditions remain in place during this time.
Lee Manning, Joint Administrator, said: “Having reviewed the portfolio with management, the store closure plan is an inevitable consequence of having to restructure the Company to a profitable core which is capable of being sold. We would like to thank the Company’s employees for their support and professionalism during this difficult time. We are also grateful to the customers for their continued support.”
The closure of the store comes as another blow to Driffield’s shopping streets with both Ethel Austin and independent retailer Chocolate and Pink announcing closures this month.
Wendy Philips from Chocolate and Pink said: “It is with great sadness Jane and I have closed Chocolate and Pink’s retail store on Middle Street South. We have enjoyed our 7 years in Driffield but have to bow to pressure of the present economic climate.”
Chocolate and Pink will continue to attend events and fairs and are taking bookings for Vintage Tea Parties, where you will still be able to purchase our lovely, popular Handbags, Accessories and gifts.