High street department store Debenhams has filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators - a move which will affect around 22,000 workers.
A statement issued by Debenhams reads: "Department store group Debenhams today has filed a Notice of Intent to appoint an administrator in the UK.
"This move will protect Debenhams from the threat of legal action that could have the effect of pushing the business into liquidation while its 142 UK stores remain closed in line with the government’s current advice regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.
"The group is making preparations to resume trading its stores once government restrictions are lifted."
Debenhams says it has the support of its lenders to enter administration, and is keeping employees and suppliers updated about the move.
More follows.
