A Poundland shop has been pictured lined with empty shelves following reports the firm is on the verge of collapse.
The store, in Warminster, Wiltshire, is due to close later this month after the retailer was unable to agree a new lease for the site.
The chain is said to be unable to buy new stock to fill shelves after being blocked by its owners.
The discount retailer has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, which protects it from creditors until Thursday.
But shoppers aren’t pleased.
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One said: ‘I couldn’t believe that the store was closing – it’s always been so popular.
‘I was shocked to walk in and find the shelves already bare. There’s barely anything left.’
Another said: ‘We’ve been coming in here since it opened and I’m really sad that it’s going.
‘The staff have always been so friendly and helpful – I feel for them, I really do.
‘We’re really angry at this closure. It’s a staple for us and another loss to the high street.’
A member of staff, who did not wish to be named, said employees were competing for limited positions elsewhere.
They said: ‘We have the Midsomer Norton store closing so it means less opportunities for us.
‘It is sad but what can we do.’
A Poundland spokesperson previously confirmed the closure to the Wiltshire Times.
They said: ‘The store at 17 Market Place in Warminster is due to close on 21 November.
‘I’m afraid this is because we’ve been unable to agree a new lease for the premises.
‘We know how disappointing this will be for customers and colleagues alike.’
The closure is not related to the retailer’s wider financial troubles, which saw the company enter administration in October.
Poundland has said it is working with affected staff through a consultation process.