As the failed DIY chain's stores continue to trade, selling off stock before their planned closure next month, liquidators report impressive sales.


The clearance sale across all 177 Focus DIY stores began the Bank Holiday weekend after Easter and, according to retail disposal specialist Gordon Brothers, sales figures on the opening weekend "smashed all expectations".

Administrators Ernst & Young appointed the Gordon Brothers Group on May 25 to liquidate stock from the collapsed Focus chain.

The closing down sale has been widely publicised and supported by a heavyweight marketing campaign and PR activity, including customer mailshots, promotion on social networking sites Facebook and Twitter and the launch of a dedicated website www.everythingmustbesold.com

Gordon Bros told DIY Week that sales have been consistently high since the clearance sale started on May 27 and that Focus is working hard to ensure stock is replenished in stores and that the main distribution centre is emptied. The firm also praised staff who, "have been magnificent under difficult circumstances".

It was originally announced that the stores would trade until July before the leases of 55 units were taken over by other retailers and the remaining 120 or so stores closed. However, Gordon Bros said deadline has not been set. "In terms of an end date, Focus has always said that "Everything Must Go" and will be continuing with the clearance sale until all stock is sold."

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