Confusion reigned this week over whether the Chatham branch of stationery giant Staples is to close or remain open.

Flyers have been handed out to customers at the store in Medway Street saying the last day of business will be on Saturday, January 14.

But a spokesman for the company told the Medway Messenger that as yet there no plans to close any branches.

The ‘closure’ follows the sale of the business by its US owners for a nominal sum to Hilco, which has said it will phase out the name.

The flyer states ‘Sorry, this store will be closing soon’, and tells shoppers the nearest other branches are in Canterbury, Ashford, Tunbridge Wells and Basildon in Essex.

A spokesman for Staples said: “It is not clear what is planned for the 106 Staples branches, which employ around 1,000 staff.

As of now there have been no announced plans to close any stores, so I can’t comment on how this will affect the Chatham location specifically.”

Hilco was unavailable for comment.