Cash & carry chain Makro, which carries DIY, housewares and furnishing products, has proposed to close three stores. Diyweek.net understands that staff have been informed this morning.
A spokesperson for Makro told diyweek.net: "We can confirm that unfortunately, due to difficult trading times and a need to reduce costs, we have made the tough decision to propose closing three of our UK stores - Swansea, Wolverhampton and Coventry.

"The proposal, which is now subject to consultation with employees and representatives, will affect the 378 staff employed at these stores."

There are 112 staff at Swansea, 139 at Coventry and 127 at Wolverhampton.

Yesterday, Usdaw national officer, Irene Radigan, said of the proposed closures: "We were informed this afternoon that Makro is proposing to close three stores. This will put the jobs of all 378 staff at the sites at risk.

"The closures will follow the statutory 90-day consultation period. We are currently establishing with the company when that consultation is to start. We are seeking to meet with Makro as soon as possible to understand the business case behind the announced closures."