The 12,000 workers at Wilko who now face potential redundancy will take little solace from the fact that the situation that has befallen the British high-street retail chain was entirely avoidable with better management.
GMB National Officer, Nadine Houghton, says: "GMB has been told time and time again how warnings were made that Wilko was in a prime position to capitalise on the growing bargain retailer market, but simply failed to grasp this opportunity.
"Much needed cash was taken out of the business by the Wilkinson family even when it was struggling.
GMB members have remained loyal and committed to Wilko, accepting pay cuts and cuts to terms and conditions to help the business stay afloat, yet, as late as last year £3m was taken from the business.
"All the while the technology to improve the Wilko home shopping offer was neglected, their place in the market lost and now 12,000 jobs are on the line."
