The future of Poundland in the Howgate Shopping Centre hangs in the balance as the discount retailer’s existence comes under threat.

Retail bosses of the brand, which has other stores across Forth Valley, have filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, giving the business 10 days to secure a rescue deal.

The move follows managing director Barry Williams reportedly telling the company’s 12,000 staff that its US owners had cut off vital funding to Poundland, despite strong sales.

According to a widely reported news report, owners Gordon Brothers are believed to be considering dismantling the high street bargain chain, with rivals Poundstretcher, B&M and Lidl said to be interested in buying some of the stores.

It has been a turbulent era for the popular high street brand. Rising costs and unstable economic conditions led to its sale from Polish retail group Pepco to current owners Gordon Brothers for £1 in June 2025, with a number of Poundland stores closing as a result of the takeover.

According to the report, Poundstretcher has shown interest in taking on between 200 and 250 of the more than 600 stores still open across the UK, while another, as yet unnamed, retailer is interested in buying more than 100 sites.

The administration threat follows a recent report that Northern Ireland-based Martin Property Group had pulled out of buying the discount retailer, despite being confirmed as preferred bidder by Poundland management earlier this month.

Poundland stores are expected to remain open while the administration process is ongoing.