Some 33 Ethel Austin stores will be axed over the next three weeks.

Usdaw has said it is to conduct urgent talks with Menzies Corporate Restructuring following the Ethel Austin administrator’s announcement yesterday (April 16) that it is to close 33 of the budget retailer’s stores with the loss of 181 jobs.

A total of 92 jobs are set to go at Ethel Austin’s head office and 89 will be cut at its distribution centre – both of which are located in Knowsley, according to the shop, distributive and allied workers union.

Store closures will be made over the next three weeks, in locations right across the UK including Eastligh, Lincoln and Ayr.

John Gorle, Usdaw National Officer, said: “The announcement that Ethel Austin has gone into administration isn’t a complete surprise. We’ve been aware for some time of the financial difficulties of the business. However, we had been hopeful that refinancing of debts would stave off administration, so this news is a tragedy for all involved and employed by the business.

“We are now seeking urgent talks with the administrators to work out the best way to support and assist our membership in this difficult situation.”

Ethel Austin currently operates a nationwide network of more than 300 stores and has been trading for around 70 years. The company employs several thousand staff, more than 600 of which are members of Usdaw.

By Natasha Piscitelli