UK department store chain Debenhams will cut hundreds of jobs at its headquarters–which employs around 3,000—as it plans to reopen following lockdown. The retailer, which is in administration for the second time within a year, plans to open doors again to customers from June 15 with 90 stores initially, followed by another 30 over summer.

Jobs will be cut in the mechandising, buying, design and human resource departments, according to a news agency report.

Since the coronavirus pandemic forced the temporary closure of all non-essential retailers, the department store has announced it would permanent shut down 16 of its stores, leaving thousands unemployed. It, however, did not confirm exactly how many positions would go.

“In the context of a retail industry undergoing profound change, the management team is working on the future shape of the group, with a view to seeking an exit from administration as a going concern,” a Debenhams spokesman said.

“With a leaner and more flexible operating model, Debenhams will have the ability to adapt to what are likely to be fundamental shifts in the future trading environment.”

Protective equipment for colleagues, guidelines to manage changing rooms, queuing systems, shorter hours and fewer services are reported to be under consideration in the new environment.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)

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