// Debenhams store in Birmingham’s Bullring may remain open as the retailer tries to reach an agreement with landlords
// The store was earmarked for permanent closure last week
Debenhams’ Bullring store in Birmingham could be saved from shutting down permanently just a week after the closure was announced, as the retailer seeks an agreement with landlords.
The 206,990sq ft store in Bullring was one of five latest locations which were due to close permanently as part of Debenhams’ administration, as the department store chain revealed it was unable to agree terms with landlord Hammerson.
Hammerson then announced fashion retailer Next would occupy some of the space currently occupied by Debenhams – not just in Bullring but also the department store’s four other Hammerson locations – for a new beauty retail concept.
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Hammerson did say it would pursue opportunities to repurpose the other floors in the Bullring, which means Debenhams could potentially reopen at the shopping centre in a much smaller unit.
As a result of the uncertain store closure, staff who had been told they would lose their jobs have been put back on furlough, Birmingham Live reported.
Debenhams first opened in the Bullring in 2003 to replace its original Birmingham city centre location.
The retailer entered administration for the second time within a year on April 9, blaming the “unprecedented circumstances” of the coronavirus crisis for a sharp fall in sales.
Debenhams said it was currently continuing to “do everything possible to find a solution”.
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