City Square Waterford was disappointed to hear the news from Debenhams that they plan to liquidate their Irish operations.

In a statement released on Thursday, Debenhams said the Republic of Ireland’s retail operations has trading challenges which have been exacerbated by the impact of COVID-19. The majority of their stores are not expected to reopen once the crisis ends. It is understood that it will be decided by the liquidator whether or not any of Debenhams’ Irish outlets can be saved.

CEO of Debenhams, Stefaan Vansteenkiste said, “We are desperately sorry not to be able to keep the Irish business operating but are faced with no alternative option in the current environment.

“This decision has not been taken lightly and is no way a reflection on our Irish colleagues, whose professionalism and commitment to serving our customers has never been in question.

“The colleagues have been placed on temporary lay-off under the Irish Government’s payment support schemes for employers and we will be working with them to support them through this process,” he added.

Debenhams’ Irish Stores

As well as its store here in City Square Waterford, Debenhams has stores in Dublin, Galway, Cork, Limerick, Tralee and Newbridge.

City Square Waterford Centre Manager, Denis Carroll said “While we had known that Debenhams’ UK operations are entering administration for the second time in a year, it comes as a shock to us all that they are liquidating their Irish arm of the company.

“Earlier this week, Debenhams said it had filed an NOI (notice of intent) to appoint an administrator, but a spokesperson at the time, said its Irish stores would be unaffected by the decision.

“Debenhams Waterford store manager, Adrian McArdle and his colleagues have been incredible to work with here in City Square and we are gutted for them with the uncertainty that lies ahead following the announcement today.”

City Square understands that customers will still be able to shop and spend any valid Debenhams vouchers with Debenhams online.