Debenhams long-term closure saddens Council

Published: 28 January 2021

News that Debenhams in Exeter is set to close for good in the near future has been greeted with sadness by the City Council.

It was announced this week that Boohoo Group plc has signed an agreement to buy the Debenhams brand and website. This will unfortunately result in the Exeter store closing its doors sometime in the future. 

Once national restrictions have been eased, and non-essential retail stores are able to re-open, Debenhams will reopen with a closing-down sale continuing in store for several weeks.

The City Council has been working with Princesshay and the store manager for a number of weeks now, putting in place a package of support for staff effected by the store closure. 

“We are devastated to hear of the sad news that Debenhams will close its doors in Exeter, said Cllr Ollie Pearson, Lead Councillor for City Centre and Corporate Services. 

“This will be a very difficult time for all employed within Debenhams, but we want to reassure staff that help and support is available through Exeter Works, a joint project with Exeter Chamber of Commerce, to provide support for anyone affected by redundancy.

“We want to encourage staff to take advantage of the local and national support available to them. and will continue to work with Princesshay and the store manager, to support staff and on the future use of this large and iconic building.”