Woolies pick 'n' mix to be auctioned

11 February 2009 05:58pm

The last ever bag of Woolies pick 'n' mix is being auctioned to raise cash for former staff.

Ed Adams, a quick-thinking former store manager of the Petts Wood branch in Orpington, south-east London, was closing up for the last time when he realised there was one final scoop of sweets left to bag.

And they are making history after administrator Deloitte gave permission for them to be auctioned on eBay to raise money for ex-retail staff who lost their jobs as recession hit the high street.

The auction goes live on eBay on Wednesday, with a certificate of authenticity from Deloitte that the sweets are indeed the last bag of Woolworths pick 'n' mix.

The charity Retail Trust - championed by shop bosses such as Sir Philip Green and Sir Stuart Rose - will receive the money once the bidding has ended.

Ex-store boss Mr Adams said: "I hope the auction raises funds to go towards the Retail Trust Helpline, which is a lifeline for retail workers and their families during these difficult times."

Weighing approximately 800g, the bag of pick 'n' mix may appeal to collectors of iconic memorabilia or confectionery enthusiasts. Bids for the bag will start at 99p with the auction concluding at midday on Saturday 21 February.

Carey Maguire, eBay pop-culture specialist, said: "The last bag of Woolworths pick 'n' mix is a one of a kind item that gives someone the chance to own a piece of history."

Nigel Rothband, Retail Trust's chief executive officer, added: "In recent months there has been a real sense of the retail community pulling together during these troubled times and this donation is a great example of retail workers rallying to support retail workers and their families.

"Our heartfelt thanks goes to Ed Adams for the sales of his enterprising 'sweet pickings'."

© The Press Association