High street retailer gets lifeline from its lenders
Support of our lenders for our turnaround plan is important.
Sergio Bucher, chief executive of Debenhams
DEPARTMENT STORE chain Debenhams has secured a lifeline from its lenders as it seeks a broader refinancing deal amid long-term pressures on the high street.
The retailer has confirmed an agreement with current lenders and noteholders to extend its borrowing facilities by a year with a cash injection of £40m.
It will act as a bridge while the company continues talks for a longer-term refinancing.
Chief executive Sergio Bucher said: “The support of our lenders for our turnaround plan is important to underpin a comprehensive solution that will take account of the interests of all stakeholders, and deliver a sustainable and profitable future for Debenhams.”
The announcement ends months of uncertainty over the company’s finances, which led to Sports Direct boss and Debenhams shareholder Mike Ashley saying the firm had little chance of survival.
Mr Ashley’s offer of a £40m loan was turned down on the basis that his terms would affect other shareholders.
Separately, Debenhams announced that it has reached an agreement with supply chain manager Li & Fung to oversee some of the chain’s sourcing. The Hong Kong-listed firm was described by Mr Bucher as being a “key part” of the Debenhams turnaround plan.
“It gives us access to stateof-the-art technology in the LF Digital platform, providing end-to-end visibility across our supply chain. This will help us anticipate and respond more quickly to trends and our customers’ preferences, as well as delivering better quality product,” he said.
Debenhams is also working with advisers at KPMG on restructuring options thought to include a company voluntary arrangement (CVA), though plans have been kept tightly under wraps.