Department store chain Debenhams is axing 2500 jobs in the latest body blow to Britain’s beleaguered high streets.
The chain, which fell into administration for the second time in a year earlier this year, does not plan to close any further stores.
The retail business is scrapping the roles of sales manager, visual merchandise manager and selling support manager as it streamlines its shopfloor operations, Retail Week reported.
The move echoes that of fellow High Street stalwart Marks & Spencer which slimmed down its in-store operations in a restructure which cost 950 jobs. John Lewis and Boots have also axed roles as the coronavirus crisis hits some of Britain’s best-known retail names.
Debenhams reopened 124 branches following the virus-induced lockdown which began in March. Non-essential stores such as Debenhams were forced to close.
The company is in a form of insolvency called a light-touch administration to protect it from its lenders.
A spokesperson for Debenhams said: "We have successfully reopened 124 stores, post-lockdown, and these are currently trading ahead of management expectations.
"At the same time, the trading environment is clearly a long way from returning to normal and we have to ensure our store costs are aligned with realistic expectations.
"Those colleagues affected by redundancy have been informed and we are very grateful to them for their service and commitment to Debenhams.
"Such difficult decisions are being taken by many retailers right now, and we will continue to take all necessary steps to give Debenhams every chance of a viable future."
