Sussex jobs at risk as Blockbuster calls in administrator (From The Argus)

Sussex jobs at risk as Blockbuster calls in administrator

2:47pm Wednesday 16th January 2013 in News By John Keenan, business editor

Up to 100 jobs are at risk at a major retailer across the county.

DVD rental firm Blockbuster has called in administrator Deloitte.

The chain has outlets in Hove, Shoreham, Burgess Hill, Peacehaven, Worthing, Haywards Heath, Uckfield, Horsham, Littlehampton, Eastbourne, Hastings and Crawley.

The stores will remain open while a buyer is sought for the business.

An employee at the store in Hove, who did not wish to be named, said teh staff at teh store had not been told that their jobs are on the line.

Contacted by The Argus he said: “This is teh first that we have heard about it. There are six people employed here but we have not been told. The manager is on holiday.”

Lee Manning, joint administrator and partner in Deloitte's Restructuring Services practice, said: “In recent years Blockbuster has faced increased competition from, internet based providers along with the shift to digital streaming of movies and games.

“We are working closely with suppliers and employees to ensure the business has the best possible platform to secure a sale, preserve jobs and generate as much value as possible for all creditors.

“The core of the business is still profitable and we will continue to trade as normal in both retail and rental whilst we seek a buyer for all or parts of the business as a going concern. During this time gift cards and credit acquired through Blockbuster's trade-in scheme will be honoured towards the purchase of goods.”