Debenhams closure: Brunswick manager's sadness as she vows to continue support for other stores

The manager of Scarborough’s Brunswick Shopping Centre has said she is saddened at the announcement that Debenhams is set to close.
Debenhams store. Brunswick Shopping Centre.Debenhams store. Brunswick Shopping Centre.
Debenhams store. Brunswick Shopping Centre.

Sue Anderson Brown, Centre Manager for the Brunswick Shopping Centre, has expressed her disappointment following the news that Debenhams will be closing.

It was announced yesterday that fashion retailer Boohoo has bought the Debenhams brand and website for £55m but will not take on any of the firm's remaining 188 High Street stores or its workforce.

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The Scarborough branch had only recently survived a list of national closures after administrators failed to secure a deal, so this news is a devastating blow for the town.

Mrs Anderson Brown said: “We are saddened at the announcement that Debenhams is set to close. We will be working closely with the retailer over the coming weeks to finalise next steps for its store in Brunswick Shopping Centre and will provide further updates when possible.

“This national news reflects the wider challenges facing retailers across the country and we will continue to support our stores during this period.”

President of Scarborough Chamber of Trade, Janet Jefferson said: “This news is devastating for Scarborough.

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“The centre itself has excellent footfall and the space would lend itself well to a very big conglomerate so we can only hope that it will soon be occupied.

“It is a very established site and we know that Scarborough itself is a very popular destination with great transport links so let's hope that as things progress someone can come in and take on the building and the staff.”

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