The administrators of Countrywide Farmers have confirmed that they have sold 14 of the farming and equestrian retailer’s former stores, safeguarding a total of 169 jobs.
The 14 stores, which are in locations around the UK, have been sold to various farming and agricultural store operators.
A total of 169 Countrywide Farmers employees have transferred to the respective owners of the stores in which they work.
However, 208 people have been made redundant at the company’s headquarters in Evesham, the Defford logistics centre and stores that have closed.
David Pike, partner at KPMG and joint administrator said he is hopeful four further sales will be achieved. However, he said redundancies are unavoidable.
“Following our appointment as joint administrators for Countrywide Farmers, we are pleased that we have been able to safeguard the future of 14 stores, and moreover the jobs of 169 staff,” Mr Pike said.
“We are hopeful that we’ll be able to achieve four further sales from the remaining trading leasehold stores.
“With no prospect of going concern sales for 11 of the 15 remaining stores, these will be closing with a final trading date of 20 May 2018. All affected staff have been informed and will be paid up to and including their last day of employment.
Mr Pike added: “We are pleased that we have been able to trade the stores for this duration to allow the successful sales to take place. We’d like to thank every employee for the support and professionalism they have provided to the company, both before and during the administration.”
Administrators were appointed to retailer Countrywide Farmers Plc in March due to "significant trading difficulties" and "cash flow pressures".
