Major international retailer closes their outlet in Kilkenny
The Kilkenny outlet is one of many to be closed across Ireland and the United Kingdom
A major international retailer has closed their outlet in Kilkenny and many more across Ireland and the United Kingdom, citing 'challenging trading conditions'.
Carpetright, a multinational retail chain selling carpets, flooring and beds, had been operating at Kilkenny Retail Park at Springhill in Kilkenny City.
In recent times, Carpetright has been hit by challenging trading conditions, predominantly due to changing consumer preferences and a drop in home improvement spending post-pandemic.
The business was also impacted by a cyber attack in April 2024, which had left it unable to trade for a period of time.
On appointment, administrators completed a sale of 54 stores and two logistics hubs to CWHP Ltd., part of the Tapi Group.
This transaction, according to a statement from PwC, "represents the best option available to generate returns for creditors as a whole, under severely limited timescales."
The remaining stores (including Kilkenny) have been closed with immediate effect, and the company’s head office will be opened for a short time to support in winding down operation before closing down.
A notice of store closure placed in the window of the Kilkenny branch states: "Due to challenging trading conditions, on 22 July 2024 the directors resolved to put Carpetright Limited in administration... As a result of the administration, this store has been closed... We would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused you."