Debenhams store closures - the 20 branches that won't reopen after lockdown

Struggling department store Debenhams crashed into administration for the second time this year on April 2 - in devastating move for thousands of workers and high streets across the country.

The company made the decision to call in experts over crippling debt and a fast-growing online retail market.

The ailing chain hired consultants at FRP Advisory, however, said despite "best efforts" was unable to save all stores.

Now, around 22,000 workers who are on furlough face redundancies, with the firm seeking rent cuts to help keep its best performing stores in business.

In total, the company has reached agreements with landlords in 120 out of 142 stores - though it's confirmed that 20 will permanently close after lockdown.

Is your local department store affected? (Getty Images)

All branches are currently shut in line with Government guidelines, however stores in Ireland and a dozen in the UK have been axed.

Debenhams chief executive Stefaan Vansteenkiste said: "In these unprecedented circumstances the appointment of the administrators will protect our business, our employees, and other important stakeholders, so that we are in a position to resume trading from our stores when Government restrictions are lifted.

"We anticipate that our highly supportive owners and lenders will make additional funding available to fund the administration period."

"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," Vansteenkiste said.

"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."

Last month, the company put the vast majority of its workforce on furlough, following the closure of its 142 stores across the UK.

All branches in the UK have since shut due to the outbreak - although the website remains open.

We've got a full guide on your Debenhams gift card and refund rights, here.

Which Debenhams stores won't be reopening after lockdown?

• Borehamwood

• Clapham

• Croydon

• Kidderminster

• Kings Lynn

• Leamington-Spa

• Leicester

• Merthyr Tydfil

• Metrocentre (Gateshead)

• Milton Keynes

• Reading

• Rugby

• Salisbury

• South Shields

• Southampton

• Stratford

• Swindon

• Truro

• Watford

• Westfield