I've never been a fan of Wilko - bit of a tat shop: https://leamingtonobserver.co.uk/news/future-uncertain-for-leamingtons-wilko-store/

In the distant past, I've bought household goods from them.

I did a university course with a guy who thought he could beat them at their own game as a student supplier. Wilko wiped the floor with him very quickly.

Perhaps the problem was it didn't really sort out its own image, I mean, was it a hardware store, DIY, retailer, stationery, or home furnishing.

It was a bit of everything, wasn't it? It had survived for many years, mainly on student populations I suspect.

I did read a report that was blaming the likes of Poundland and B&M for its' demise. If that was the case, then I might suggest that Wilko's marketing department had let them down.

Prices were reasonable. I'm not sure how long they had been going, was it more than 15 years?
Last year they had a sale on duvet covers and I got two as my sister also wanted one she loved the design and it was good cotton fabric. But I will admit to buying screwdrivers and one of those retracting tape measures in Robert Dyas. as Wilko had a poor supply on that line. However I will be sad to see them go.

Wilko was founded in Leicester in the early 30s. So they had a pretty good run.

I remember being told during one of my MBA sessions that very few companies reach 100 years old.

True but, I can only think of W.H.Smith older than 100 years, started in 1792.

A few names here, Margaret. Link

I wouldn't take the list at face value though, they talk of RR producing jet engines during the war.

Companies House lists 5000+ businesses as being over 100 years old. That sounds a lot, but when you actually look at the number of companies started it pales into a very small percentage.

We're going to be plagued by more B&M shops: https://rugbyobserver.co.uk/news/update-bm-bargains-enter-into-agreement-to-buy-51-wilko-stores-46171/