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Debenhams confirms it will shut down 50 stores, with thousands of jobs at risk

Published 09:07 25 Oct 2018 BST

Olivia Hayes
Debenhams confirms it will shut down 50 stores, with thousands of jobs at riskAdd us as a preferred source on Google »

The news was announced this morning.

Debenhams has confirmed that it will close up to 50 stores due to nearly £500 million in loss - the biggest loss in the shop's 240-year history. The closures will be implemented over a five-year period, with more then 4,000 jobs now at risk. According to the Independent, chief executive Sergio Bucher said: “It has been a tough year for retail in 2018 and our performance reflects that. We are taking decisive steps to strengthen Debenhams in a market that remains volatile and challenging. “We are taking tough decisions on stores where financial performance is likely to deteriorate over time. “Debenhams remains a strong and trusted brand with 19 million customers shopping with us over the past year. “With a strengthened balance sheet, we will focus investment behind our strategic priorities and ensure that Debenhams has a sustainable and profitable future.” It is unknown whether it's Irish stores will close.

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