Pure Beauty

Debenhams closes only store in Australian market

By Becky Bargh | Published: 4-Jun-2019

The retailer is expected to maintain its online presence in the market

Struggling retailer Debenhams has taken the decision to close its only Australian store.

According to Retail Week, it confirmed the Melbourne shop, which opened in December 2017, will cease trading in the new year but is expected to keep an online presence in the country.

During its time in the country the store was run by Debenhams’ franchise partner Pepko.

Despite the closure, a spokesperson for the retailer confirmed it will open three new stores across the Middle East in Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Oman.

“The international strategy is to consolidate and grow in those markets we see a profitable opportunity in,” a spokesperson told Retail Week.

Last month, the department store chain was given the go-ahead for creditors to carry out its financial restructuring plan.

This plan could see at least 22 stores close, putting 1,200 jobs at risk.

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