Wilko recently announced that it was to open five concept stores before Christmas and is today confirming the locations and opening dates for the first three. 

 The final two locations will be announced soon.

Wilko is planning to recruit up to 80 local team members per store, with the brand’s new owner, CDS Superstores, which also owns The Range, pledging to prioritise interviews for ex-wilko employees. Those interested in roles at the store, can apply via the jobs page here. 

This initial roll-out kickstarts a programme of store openings that will continue throughout 2024 and for the first time in the brand’s history, will see wilko stores arrive on high streets in Northern Ireland.

CEO of CDS Superstores, trading as wilko and The Range, Alex Simpkin said; 'It’s clear that there’s a huge love for wilko and we’re proud to confirm we’ll be re-introducing the brand to high streets in Plymouth, Exeter and Luton in the coming weeks.

 'We’re also glad to be bringing employment opportunities to these towns and for helping local families and communities have easy access to all the everyday home and garden items they need once again. 

'This initial rollout is only the beginning for our plans for revitalising the wilko brand on the nation’s high streets and retail parks, and we’ll be announcing further store launches and re-openings throughout 2024.' 

The CDS Superstores’ property team is encouraging landlords across the UK to open productive conversations if they’re interested in being considered for the wilko roll-out programme.