// 6 board members of Jigsaw step down
// The retailer is looking to streamline the business so it’s more agile
// It also wants to be better placed to deal with the challenges posed by Covid-19
Six of Jigsaw’s board members have stepped down as the fashion retailer “looks to streamline” amid the coronavirus crisis.
In a statement, Jigsaw said Isabel Spearman, Despina Don-Wauchope, David Hall, Richard Walker, James Murray-Wells and Silvana Rossi recently left the womenswear retailer’s board.
“Jigsaw confirms that six of its board members have stepped down, as the fashion retailer looks to streamline its board to ensure the business is more agile and better placed to deal with the challenges posed by the current Covid-19 outbreak,” it said.
READ MORE: Jigsaw seeks 30% rent reduction from landlords
UK retail has been hit hard by the pandemic, with some firms collapsing into administration or announcing they would not be reopening some stores after the lockdown eases.
A Jigsaw spokesman said the retailer, which has moved online after closing its doors, had not been exempt to current challenges.
“Jigsaw is a much-loved heritage brand and now is the right time to have a smaller board that is fully focused on helping us get through this difficult period and on reopening our stores when it is safe to do so,” he said.
The firm has been a staple of British life since opening its first boutique in 1970 and has become associated with the Duchess of Cambridge, who once worked there prior to her marriage and continues to wear its clothing.
Companies House records showed seven directors had stepped down from Jigsaw’s board since the start of the year, with Toby Foreman added to the list provided by the company.
Foreman had moved from his position as head of human resources to interim chief executive before quitting in January.
Carphone Warehouse founder David Ross, who attracted controversy earlier this year when the Prime Minister said he accepted accommodation from the businessman to the value of £15,000, has been the company’s major shareholder since 2018.
with PA Wires
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