Wellworths ... Former Woolworths manager Claire Robertson reopens her store
Last updated 26/06/2009 12:18:07
Claire Robertson reopens her Wellworths store
It was the most devastating retail story of recent times - the demise of a High Street institution. But a former Woolworths manager has defied the credit crunch by reopening the store under the name Wellworths.
And what's more, Claire Robertson has recruited 20 of her former Woolworths staff to join her new shop in Dorchester, Dorset. It's an incredible achievement - and a shot in the arm for those who fear we can't overcome the economic downturn.
After working for the chain for eighteen years, the 34-year-old wasn't going to take the store's closure lying down. Claire had worked too hard for that, climbing her way up the Woolworth's ladder from her early employment as Saturday girl. And she had managed the Dorchester storefor the last five years.
Sadly, that branch was one of 815 that closed after Woolworths went into administration last November with debts of £385m.
Broadcaster Chris Evans officially opened the store, which has been nicknamed Wellies - in homage to the old Woolies name.
"It gives people a bit of inspiration to go out and do something new or change direction especially in these gloomy economic times when all the news is depressing," Claire told reporters.
She believed there was still a market for a Woolworths style store in her home town. The sales had always been good even though Woolworths as a company wasn't profitable. The mother-of-two gained the financial backing of a consortium led by the Ireland-based owner of the premises.
The store has the traditional pick and mix which helped make Woolworth famous but has new lines including a craft and pet section with a stronger focus on products by local firms. Congratulations and good luck Claire - you're an optimist in the true sense of the word.