Sad end to a retail mainstay as bargains are snapped up
DEBENHAMS stores across Wales have opened for the last time as hundreds of shoppers flocked to the popular chain to pick up a final bargain.
Several branches across the country are opening to get rid of stock after the chain went into administration.
In the Swansea store, large signs saying “everything must go” were seen hanging from the ceiling.
“Solemn” scenes were described yesterday in the Cardiff store as nonessential retail finally reopened after months of lockdown.
The closure of Debenhams is a devastating blow to Welsh city and town centres where the department stores have been one of the major draws bringing in shoppers.
In January the chain announced all of its stores would close after online fashion retailer Boohoo bought the Debenhams brand for £55 million and will relaunch as an onlineonly operation.
The stores across Wales reopened as part of Debenhams’ final stock liquidation process and will continue to trade for a limited number of weeks until the stock in the stores is fully cleared.
In Cardiff hundreds of shoppers descended on the store yesterday to grab a final bargain. A snaking queue of hundreds of shoppers was seen outside the St David’s shopping centre shop.
Some parts of the store look almost how it would have been left in December when the early lockdown was brought in.
Stands full of alcohol, chocolates and gift sets are heavily discounted, but other than the cutdown prices there was little indication that they were being sold off.
Crowds were a similar number you’d see at Christmas time, and around the gift section it felt like it could be the festive period.
Lots of the cosmetics are 30% off, while handbags are 40% reduced and some women’s clothes are up to 70% off. One dress that is usually £120 is down to £49.
Up on the top floor, a large part of the home section was closed off and items were marked as not to be sold.
Our reporter at the store said: “There are really big queues at the tills. I haven’t seen it this busy in years. It’s sad that people are now coming out to support the shop when it’s too late. The atmosphere is a bit solemn, although people are mainly just out for a bargain.”
Daniel Buckley, who was queuing outside Debenhams in Cardiff, said: “In many stores there’s just going to be a change in consumer behaviour. I think shops will become a front for collections and returns.
“I have no guess what it will look like in five years’ time. Consumer behaviour has changed too much because of lockdown.
“Sometimes you just need an excuse to go outside and shopping is a good one. It stops you from being lazy.”
Debenhams stores will start to close permanently from May 2, with the stock clearance completed and final stores expected to close by May 15.
A spokesman said: “This is the last chance for customers in England and Wales to visit their local Debenhams before sadly our stores close for good.
“We will be reopening with a fantastic range of offers and discounts across all of our customers’ favourite brands and products.
“Stocks are limited and expected to sell out quickly so customers should visit their nearest store quickly to avoid disappointment.
“We are very grateful for the efforts of our staff who have worked so hard throughout the most difficult of circumstances to keep the business trading”.
The chain has stores in Bangor, Cardiff, Carmarthen, Llandudno, Llanelli, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham.