Forever 21 plans to shut at least 100 stores in bankruptcy, sources say
Forever 21 Inc. is preparing to close at least 100 stores as part of a restructuring that calls for the trendy fast-fashion retailer to file for bankruptcy protection as early as this month, according to people with knowledge of the preparations.
The Los Angeles-based apparel merchant is working on obtaining a financial package that would provide about $75 million for its restructuring in the court process, said the people, who asked not to be named discussing private negotiations.
The plan envisions a Chapter 11 filing, which would allow the company to keep operating while it works out a way to pay its creditors and turn the business around. Even as these plans firm up, advisors could still strike an agreement that buys the retailer more time before resorting to bankruptcy, the people said.
Founded in 1984, Forever 21 operates more than 800 stores in the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America.
Representatives for Forever 21 didn’t comment on the preparations, but referred to a statement the company released Wednesday in response to a Wall Street Journal report that the retailer was planning to file for bankruptcy protection as early as Sunday.
“Forever 21 is not planning to file for bankruptcy on Sunday,” the statement read. “Our stores are open and it is our intention to continue to operate the vast majority of U.S. stores, as well as a smaller amount of international stores, providing customers with great service and the curated assortment of merchandise that they love and expect from Forever 21.”
Nearly a decade ago, before Instagram influencers existed, Forever 21 helped teen girls dress like their favorite celebrities, for cheap.
Bankruptcy protection would help the bargain apparel firm shed unprofitable stores after expanding too far and too fast in recent years, the people said.
It could also put added stress on major mall owners, including Simon Property Group Inc. and Brookfield Property Partners. Forever 21 is one of the biggest mall tenants still standing after a wave of bankruptcies in the retail sector that has seen more than 8,200 outlets close this year.
The landlords may consider unusual means to preserve Forever 21’s survival, people with knowledge of the developments said last month. Mall owners and company representatives have discussed easing Forever 21’s rent in exchange for an ownership stake in the retailer.
