Partner Article

Peacocks sale saves 6,000 jobs

Stricken clothing retailer Peacocks has been sold to Edinburgh Woollen Mill, in a move that will save 6,000 jobs.

The firm has acquired the Peacocks brand, 388 stores and concessions, as well as the business’ headquarters and logistics functions in Wales.

However 224 stores were not included in the sale, resulting in 3,100 redundancies.

Chris Laverty, joint administrator and restructuring partner at KPMG, commented: “Today’s deal ensures the continued trading of a well known name on the high street.

“While it is unfortunate that redundancies have been necessary, we are pleased that we have been able to preserve the majority of the business and jobs.

“Like many other retailers, Peacocks suffered from a decline in consumer spending due to the tough economic conditions and this, combined with a surplus of stores and unsustainable capital structure led to the business becoming financially unviable.

“However, a strong brand presence and loyal customer following meant that Peacocks attracted a great deal of interest from both trade and private equity bidders, leading to today’s successful sale.

“I would take this opportunity to thank the management team and staff for their continued assistance in very difficult circumstances; their support has been invaluable in securing today’s sale.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .