Debenhams
This coverage examines Debenhams’ trajectory, strategies, and impact within the UK retail sector. Reporting focuses on store operations, online developments, financial performance, brand repositioning, product ranges, and executive changes. Designed for retail professionals, it offers analysis of commercial decisions, market challenges, and opportunities relevant to department store management and broader apparel and homeware retailing.
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Oct- 2018 -22 OctoberDepartment Stores
Debenhams ‘could close a third of its stores’
It is rumoured Debenhams could be closing up to a third of its stores following a series of profit warnings and poor trading results. The embattled department store has 166 outlets across the UK and is reportedly looking to save £100m. The Sunday Telegraph reported that the chain would save…
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5 OctoberGovernment
MPs launch inquiry into top fashion retailers
Some 10 of the UK’s leading fashion retailers have been asked to submit evidence on the steps being taken to reduce social and environmental impact. The chair of the Environmental Audit Committee Mary Creagh MP has written to the chief executives of a number of retail chains. This includes Asda,…
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2 OctoberDepartment Stores
Debenhams merchandising director leaves amid trouble with insurers
Debenhams merchandising director Adele Calderwood has reportedly stepped down following yesterday’s news that the company’s insurers had pulled out. Calderwood, who joined the company from Arcadia in 2004 and worked for the retailer for 14 years, will now depart according to reports by Drapers. Debenhams told Retail Sector it had…
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1 OctoberDepartment Stores
Debenhams under more pressure as insurers withdraw cover
Department store Debenhams could be facing more problems as its leading insurance provider Atradius has pulled its cover for the retailer’s suppliers. The news indicates there are fears regarding the department store’s future amid speculation that it could face closures or enter a CVA after appointing KPMG to help advise…
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Sep- 2018 -17 SeptemberDepartment Stores
Sports Direct denies Mike Ashley will block Debenhams’ Magasin du Nord sale
Sports Direct has denied the claims which emerged over the weekend that Mike Ashley will attempt to block a sale of Debenhams’ Magasin du Nord business. Reports had suggested the Sports Direct boss could block Debenhams attempt to raise cash through the £250m deal, in order to buy the store…
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17 SeptemberHigh Street
Paperchase sees key credit insurer reduce cover
Paperchase is facing increasing pressure as one of its main credit insurers has reduced its cover after the company posted a slump in profits. Paperchase saw its profits before tax drop 88% to just £613,000 in the year to 28 January, according to its latest accounts filed with Companies…
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14 SeptemberAnalysis
The new Debenhams branding might be ‘joyous’ – but is the in-store experience?
This is a pivotal moment for department stores. The ongoing House of Fraser (HoF) crisis has shown the perils of not keeping up, and just this week former giant John Lewis revealed an incredible 99% dip in profits. It’s a stark warning – but it has also opened up an…
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13 SeptemberAnalysis
How Wesfarmers’ takeover strategy almost sent Homebase ‘down under’
There are few home comforts for Homebase right now. The DIY chain confirmed on August 31 that it will close a further 42 stores later this year, resulting in 1,500 job losses. The home improvement and garden retailer has already shut 16 stores this year, following its acquisition by restructuring…
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13 SeptemberDepartment Stores
Sports Direct rules out Debenhams takeover
Sports Direct has quashed speculation that it could increase its 30% stake in embattled department store Debenhams with a buyout deal. Senior non-executive director Simon Bentley caused confusion when he told reporters that a House of Fraser and Debenhams merger had “been discussed” by the board during its AGM on…
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11 SeptemberDepartment Stores
Debenhams releases statement amid closure rumours to calm investors
Debenhams has released an official statement in response to rumours it was preparing to shutter stores and enter a CVA following the reported appointment of advisory firm KPMG. The department store said “following recent media speculation” it would issue its preliminary results on 25 October 2018 saying it expected a…
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