Debenhams to cut 2,500 jobs in latest blow to high street

Debenhams is to cut a further 2,500 jobs across its stores and warehouses, just months after entering administration for a second time.

The department store, which has already permanently closed 18 stores since the start of lockdown in March, said it hoped the job cuts would help "ensure our store costs are aligned with realistic expectations".

The business plans to scrap a number of management roles as part of a restructuring process.

In a statement, Debenhams said: "We have successfully reopened 124 stores, post-lockdown, and these are currently trading ahead of management expectations.

“At the same time, the trading environment is clearly a long way from returning to normal and we have to ensure our store costs are aligned with realistic expectations.

“Those colleagues affected by redundancy have been informed and we are very grateful to them for their service and commitment to Debenhams.

“Such difficult decisions are being taken by many retailers right now, and we will continue to take all necessary steps to give Debenhams every chance of a viable future.”

The 242-year-old department store entered administration for a second time in April, before putting itself up for sale in July.