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Poundland will temporarily close 100 branches with staff put on furlough thanks to coronavirus.

While the shop counts as an essential retailer, so is allowed to stay open, customer numbers have plummeted at some branches as the effects of the Government's lockdown policy hit footfall.

That meant many of the chain's outlets have been losing cash.

As a result, the company said it was putting 100 branches into "hibernation" until the crisis has resolved and people are free to work and shop again as normal.

Staff will be moved to nearby stores to help keep up with demand where possible, while others will be put into furlough.

(Image: Poundland)

Poundland managing director Barry Williams said: “We served nearly three million customers last week with groceries and household essentials. It has been an amazing effort by all our colleagues.

"But people’s buying patterns are naturally changing as they stick to the Government’s advice to stay at home and this is having an impact."

He added: “The measures we’re taking, such as putting some stores into hibernation, will help us better serve communities from the majority of stores that remain open during this period of disruption."

“It will make sure we’re well placed for recovery once the country emerges from its current battle.”

Here are the first 32 branches Poundland plans to close: