Andy Burnham has urged the owner of Poundland to "come up with a practical solution that saves jobs", as 600 stores face the risk of closure.
It comes after Poundland filed to appoint administrators last week, threatening the future of around 12,000 workers. From filing the notice on Thursday (October 29), the business has 10 working days to secure a potential rescue deal. Advisers are still in talks with parties interested in buying the brand and portfolio of stores.
Burnham calls for action
Asked what his message was to Poundland's executives, Mr Burnham said: "Focus on the people in your employment. Meet with the Business Secretary because we are setting up that meeting."
"Come up with a practical solution that saves jobs and saves those stores because many of them are viable propositions. They're on high streets. They matter in our communities. There is a solution to be found here. Sit down with us and let's find it."
He added that the Government was "prepared to find what we can do" to help save the chain.
Government support
It follows the Prime Minister's message to owners last week in which he urged the business to sell up if there was a "potential owner" on the cards. He said: "This is a deeply worrying time for Poundland staff and their families. We want to see jobs protected."
"If there was a potential owner to avoid this that hasn't been accepted, then the Business Secretary and I want to know why that is the case. We stand ready to support the workforce however we can."
