The Works losses narrow despite online capacity constraints
Losses at The Works narrowed and the retailer delivered ‘robust performance’ over Christmas, despite the ongoing online capacity constraints.

Britain's favourite discount retailer for books, art supplies, stationery, toys, and games with over 500 stores nationwide.
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Be the first to write a reviewThe Works is a British discount retailer that began in 1981 when husband and wife Mike and Jane Crossley started selling remaindered books from their front room. By 1984, they had opened their first shop in Halesowen, and the company has since grown to operate over 500 stores across the UK and Ireland.
Now trading as TheWorks.co.uk plc and headquartered in Coleshill, Warwickshire, the company sells discounted books, art and craft materials, gifts, toys, games, and stationery. Their mission is to provide affordable screen-free fun for the whole family.
The Works launched their e-commerce platform in 2012, complementing their extensive store network. The company expanded significantly in 2007 by acquiring 26 outlets from the Bargain Books and Bookworld chains, and celebrated opening their 500th store in 2019.
Losses at The Works narrowed and the retailer delivered ‘robust performance’ over Christmas, despite the ongoing online capacity constraints.

Book and craft retailer The Works has reported improved profitability and resilient in-store trading in its interim results. The business said, for the 26 weeks ended 2 November 2025, total like-for-like (LFL) sales increased by 0.3%, underpinned by a strong performance in stores, which account for more than 90% of group revenue. Store LFL sales...

The Works said its stores delivered strong growth in the 26 weeks to 2 November, as the retailer of screen-free activities benefited from new strategic initiatives.... View Article
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Loyalty Programme
The Works Rewards
Earn points on every purchase redeemable for money off future orders
Free Click & Collect to store. Free home delivery on orders over £20. Standard delivery within 3-5 working days.
Returns Policy
Returns accepted within 28 days with proof of purchase
Founded
1981
Headquarters
Coleshill, Warwickshire, UK
Number of Stores
500+
Yes, The Works Rewards lets you earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for discounts.
Yes, free Click & Collect is available to all 500+ stores, usually ready within 2 hours during store opening times.
Yes, The Works is a popular destination for back-to-school supplies including stationery, art materials, and educational books.
Since 1981, The Works has been bringing amazing value to families. Over 500 stores across the UK and Ireland offer discounted books, art supplies, stationery, toys, and games.
Order online and collect free from any of 500+ stores, usually ready within 2 hours during opening times.
Join The Works Rewards to earn points on every purchase, redeemable for money off future orders.

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