Woolworths employees in Jersey are planning a protest over redundancy pay as a further 200 stores close today (Saturday January 3rd).

Administrators Deloitte gave the stores a one-day reprieve to remaining stock to be sold and the final 200 stores will now close on January 6th.

“There are two main reasons for delaying the closures,” said a spokesman.

“One, stock levels – there’s still some stock remaining. Two, workload – it’s a big logistical exercise.”

And as the retailer departs the high street after almost 100 years of trading, employees in Jersey are launching a petition after being told they are not due to receive redundancy pay.

Woolworths outlets on Guernsey and Jersey closed on Tuesday but as UK statutory redundancy payouts do not apply to the Channel Islands, some 120 staff will not receive a severance cheque.

More than 2,500 people have signed the petition in support of the employees but it is believed administrators will not make a special payout to Jersey staff so as to avoid setting a precedent.

Woolworths entered administration in November with debts of £385 million, leaving 27,000 employees facing redundancy.

Many of the retailer’s outlets closed on December 30th, with store contents – including fittings and fixtures – on sale at discount prices.

And the final 200 stores will now shut their doors on January 6th.