Questions marks over Ethel Austin future

Feb 11 2010 by Paul Glynn, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Questions marks over Ethel Austin future

THE futures of more than 70 Ethel Austin employees in Runcorn and Widnes were in serious doubt this week after the company went into administration.

The high street retailer employs several thousand staff, including around 700 Usdaw members.

Usdaw national officer John Gorle said: “The announcement that Ethel Austin has again gone into administration isn’t a complete surprise as we were aware that the company had some financial difficulties.

“We have already made contact with the company and the administrators with a view to working closely with them in an attempt to secure the employment of all staff.

“The announcement is terrible news for the loyal and hardworking staff who now face a period of uncertainty.”

Ethel Austin MD Richard Merrin said: “We are in the process of finding a new buyer.

“If we don’t find a buyer we will have to explore other options, but its way to early to suggest that yet.”