Debenhams will start reopening most of its department stores in phases from the beginning of next week.
Three stores with street access will reopen in Northern Ireland from Monday, including its Belfast flagship, with the remaining two stores following shortly afterwards. A further 50 stores will reopen in England on 15 June, with the rest following later that week.
The retailer stressed that all stores will have strict social distancing and hygiene measures in place.
Meanwhile, the Debenhams outlets in Scotland and Wales will reopen once government restrictions are lifted.
Steven Cook, the chain’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming customers back to our stores in the coming weeks. From the installation of perspex screens at till points to the roll-out of social distancing procedures and PPE, we have been working hard to ensure our colleagues and customers can work and shop with confidence.
“Our reopening plans follow the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on 120 stores, meaning that the vast majority of our stores will be reopening.”
Last week, it revealed that Debenhams is cutting more than 1,000 jobs at its headquarters and in stores as it tries to emerge from its second administration in a year. The retailer has already confirmed plans to permanently close 17 of its 142 UK outlets as part of its restructuring. The future of five others is still hanging in the balance.
When Debenhams collapsed into administration in April, the business owed £155m to creditors, including many suppliers. It is still unclear how much will be paid and to whom.
The group’s lenders are said to remain supportive. However, analysts have suggested that the business may not formally exit administration until next year, with more store closures still possible.
