DW Sports to close in Newtownabbey

The firm will close seven stores in Northern Ireland, including the Longwood Road branch, at the end of August.

DW Fitness First also confirmed three of its five gyms across Northern Ireland, including the Newtownabbey branch, shut on Tuesday (August 4) after the company entered administration.

Commenting on social media yesterday, a spokesperson for DW Fitness First Newtownabbey, said: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce we are closing our doors in Newtownabbey at 8pm today.

“From Louise, Jonny and the whole team we want to thank all our wonderful members and staff both past and present over the years for all the great memories. It has been a great pleasure to serve our community

“As today will be an extremely emotional and sad day for staff and members, we hope to see as many of you down at the club as possible, for one final workout with us.”

In a statement issued to this newspaper, a company spokesperson said: “DW Sports has announced it is restructuring its gym and retail portfolio, and has appointed Administrators.

“As a result of this DW Sports Newtownabbey will be closing down. The gym closed on August 4 and the store will close in the next two to four weeks– with a closing down sale underway.

“Like many retailers, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and trends in consumer online spending habits the whole DW Sports retail estate has been reviewed and all DW Sports retail stores in the UK will close. The DW Sports website has ceased trading. This store and gym has traded on this site for 13 years.”

Martin Long, Group CEO, said: “This has clearly been a very difficult decision for the business, especially in Newtownabbey where we have become a real part of the sporting community and we thank the staff and our customers for the many years we have enjoyed in the area.”

UUP Cllr Robert Foster said his thoughts are with the staff and their families who will lose their jobs as a result of the closure.

The Macedon representative stated: “Unfortunately given the economic downturn many businesses will find themselves in this position over the coming months and measures must be put in place to mitigate any job losses wherever possible.

“DW will be a major loss to the area and especially the gym which was extremely well used. In the current climate gyms reopening has provided a great release to many who have either been shielding or have just been unable to exercise for whatever reason.

“I hope a buyer for both the shop and gym can be found as they are a fantastic asset in a fantastic location, as is the neighbouring Homebase which is also set to close later this year.”

A post on the DW website, which has now ceased trading, stated: “Graham Newton and Ryan Grant were appointed Joint Administrators of the Company on August 3 2020.

“Graham Newton and Ryan Grant are authorised to act in the UK as Insolvency Practitioners by the Insolvency Practitioners Association. The Joint Administrators act as agents of the Company and contract without personal liability.”

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