A major Poundland supplier has said it will lose millions of pounds if the retailer goes bust.

Adam Turner, sales director at Bradford-based Highcrest Retail Brands, said Poundland was one of its biggest customers and its collapse would cost it "a few million" in lost sales.

Poundland's owner, US-based investment firm Gordon Brothers, is facing government scrutiny after refusing a bid which would have kept the retailer in business.

Gordon Brothers has previously said Poundland faces multiple economic challenges from rising inflation, increasing staff costs, and "severe levels of shoplifting".

Highcrest, a family owned business, mainly sells confectionery to Poundland and turns over about £50m.

Turner said the firm becoming insolvent would leave a substantial gap in its balance sheet next year.

Highcrest was a "longstanding business that can stomach this", Turner said.…