Retail giant Debenhams is to close its entire chain after last-ditch efforts to save the company failed, it is claimed.
All 12,000 employees are likely to lose their jobs when 124 shops cease trading, the BBC report.
It follows the company's plunge into administration for the second time earlier this year.
Hopes had rested on a rescue bid from JD Sports, but the sports chain has pulled out.
That leaves the future of the 242-year-old department store looking bleak.
It is understood staff were told of the news on Tuesday morning.
The news comes just hours after Topshop owner Arcadia collapsed into administration, putting 13,000 jobs at risk.
