Poundland to leave Sutton Coldfield shop as staff member cites ‘high rent’

Poundland pictured on the left in Sutton Coldfield's Parade just weeks before the shop which has been there for more than a decade uis set to go
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A big-name discount retailer is set to leave its Sutton Coldfield shop with a staff member claiming its due to the property’s ‘high rent’. National firm, Poundland, is closing its shop in the town’s Parade next month, leaving a gaping hole in the town’s main shopping strip.

Signs in the window of the shop say: “Poundland. Sorry. We’re closing 5th October.” BirminghamLive spoke to a staff member who indicated they had been told it was due to the cost of the rent at the premises.

The landlord for that shop and most of that side of the Parade is Birmingham City Council. And it indicated that it was duty bound to get a ‘market rent’ for the premises.

Read more: Bar to shut as owners cite ‘sad reflection of yet more decline in town’

A spokesman for the council said: “The council has been in negotiations with Poundland to agree terms of a new lease since the existing lease in due to end in October 2024. The Parade forms part of the council’s investment portfolio and so we are obliged to obtain a market rent.

"We employ appropriate experts to ensure comparative rates are offered that reflect current market conditions.”

A sign in the window of Poundland in Sutton Coldfield's Parade confirms its imminent closure date of October 5
A sign in the window of Poundland in Sutton Coldfield's Parade confirms its imminent closure date of October 5

Michelle Baker who manages the town’s Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID (business improvement district) representing more than 300 town centre businesses, hopes Poundland’s departure will be brief. Mrs Baker said: “While it’s sad to see Poundland closing its doors next month, we remain optimistic about the possibility of a new location within the town centre. Their presence has always been a valued part of The Parade, and we hope to welcome them back soon”.

A spokesman on behalf of Poundland, which has its headquarters in nearby Walsall, said: “Yes, I’m afraid that store is closing as we’ve been unable to secure an agreement that would allow us to keep it open. We know how disappointing this will be.

“But it goes without saying we’ll be doing all we can to look after colleagues that work there, including opportunities to work at our other nearby stores including Princess Alice Retail Park.”