Woolworths could be coming back to the high street

No, this isn't a malfunction, and you haven't suddenly time-traveled back to 1996 when strolling into 'Woolies' meant enjoying a delightful pick 'n' mix, which was about 60p a cup, and tuning in to the latest chart hits, of the ''Macarena'' or ''Gangsta's Paradise'' on a headset, where only one ear worked, whilst your parent(s) browsed for another Pyrex dish.

Roman Heini is spearheading the expansion of Woolworth Germany across Europe and expresses a desire to add new stores in the UK to his "bucket list." Once renowned for its pick 'n' mix sweet counters, these stores disappeared from our town centers when the British company went into administration in 2009, marking the end of a century-long legacy.

Mr. Heini remarked, "I can't think of any brands with as much recognition in Britain without having active stores. We have secured all the trademarks for the brand throughout Europe, giving us the option to operate if we decide to do so. It might be on the horizon for the mid or long-term future."

Woolworth Germany faced insolvency in 2009 but successfully staged a comeback, expanding into Austria and Poland. With over 600 stores, the company abstains from online sales and focuses on own-brand household items and clothing, including underwear.

On a related note, Woolworths did attempt a 'comeback' under the Shop Direct Brand, operating exclusively online. However, it failed to gain significant traction and eventually wound down, in 2015.

Here's some Memories of Woolworths:

Shop assistant Mary Mullins sorts the Pic 'n' Mix display at a Woolworths general store in London, March 2007. Within a year all the UK stores would be closed
Georgina Warlow, a shop assistant at Woolworths, Strand, February 1975


The Woolworths Store in Holborn, London, August 1980

Mothers day shopping at Woolies in the City, 1985

Source

Interior of a Woolworths store in Reading in 1945 (Source)