Debenhams stores to reopen for final closing down sale

Debenhams has announced that its stores in England and Wales will reopen on Monday 12 April for the business's final closing down sale, as it prepares to close all stores following a takeover from Boohoo.

The retailers 97 stores (89 in England, 8 in Wales) are to reopen as part a final stock liquidation process and will trade for a limited number of weeks until the necessary stock levels in the stores is cleared.

Stores are expected to start to close permanently from 2 May, with the final store expected to close by 15 May.

The sale will offer up to 70% off fashion items and home products, and up to 50% off beauty and fragrance.

The 242-year-old business, which collapsed last year, will operate exclusively online from late 2021, with new bosses Boohoo aiming to step into the homeware retail market.

Debenhams had been in administration since the start of Lockdown 1 last Spring. It began liquidation proceedings at the start of December, a day after its largest concessionaire, Arcadia Group, called in the administrators.

A spokesperson for Debenhams said: “This is the last chance for customers in England and Wales to visit their local Debenhams before sadly our stores close for good. We will be reopening with a fantastic range of offers and discounts across all of our customers’ favourite brands and products.

“Stocks are limited and expected to sell out quickly so customers should visit their nearest store quickly to avoid disappointment. We are very grateful for the efforts of our staff who have worked so hard throughout the most difficult of circumstances to keep the business trading.”