Debenhams cuts 2,500 jobs

Embattled department store chain Debenhams has cut 2,500 staff roles. 

The retailer said that the job cuts, believed to be across both its retail and warehouse staff, have been made in order to give the company “every chance of a viable future”.

A spokesperson said staff affected by redundancy have been informed. They added that “such difficult decisions” are being taken by many retailers right now, and the retailer will continue to take “all necessary steps” to continue trading.

The spokesperson said: “We have successfully reopened 124 stores, post-lockdown, and these are currently trading ahead of management expectations. At the same time, the trading environment is clearly a long way from returning to normal and we have to ensure our store costs are aligned with realistic expectations.”

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Frasers Group owner Mike Ashley is reportedly looking to acquire up to 30 Debenhams stores.

According to the Mail, sources claim Ashley has discussed the acquisition proposals with senior members of staff, and a potential statement clarifying the speculation could be released this week.

Ashley has previously attempted to take control of Debenhams and insert himself as a senior board member on two occasions, without success.

Last month it was revealed that a further three Debenhams sites would not reopen, bringing the total number of permantately shuttered stores to 20.