Failed electrical retailer Comet, this morning launched a huge ‘fire sale ‘as administrators Deloitte began the process of winding down the business. A notice on the company website announces a ‘massive stock liquidation’ in which everything is reduced.
The sale began in Comet’s 240 stores nationwide at 9am but there appears to be no facility to purchase online. The notice also states that gift vouchers will be accepted following their suspension earlier in the week.
Deloitte is hoping to find a buyer for the chain but it is more likely that it will be broken up with rivals cherry picking the best stores while others are closed. It is anticipated that closures could commence as early as next week.
This leaves 6,600 jobs hanging in the balance and has led to Currys, Dixons and PC World delaying recruitment of seasonal staff. Some Comet staff are already taking the leap it seems.
According to a spokesman for Dixons, more than 500 have already enquired about opportunities with many walking into Dixons stores still dressed in their Comet uniforms.
He said; For now the jobs are temporary, but we are hoping that a good number will become permanent.”
If Comet does disappear it will be one of the biggest high street collapses since Woolworths became the first major casualty of the recession in 2008.
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This is not a “massive” sale at all. I popped along to Comet this morning looking for bargains for Christmas and was very disappointed. 10% off audio visual goods is hardly a saving at all. My advice is stay at home and shop online – it’s cheaper !!!