Blacks Leisure, the U.K. outdoor chain, announced plans to close 89 stores across the group that have not “traded profitably for years”. The firm, which operates Millets, Blacks and O'Neill shops, also said it plans to lay off 50 employees at its Northampton head office.
Last week, it called in administrators to its 11 O'Neill boardwear stores – threatening 90 jobs. It also said a drop in sales during the downturn meant it would breach the terms of its bank loans.
It described the closures and job losses at the head office as “highly regrettable”, but added that “both actions will ultimately strengthen the business and help ensure that a successful and profitable outdoor retailer emerges from the current restructuring process”.
It operates 256 Millets shops, 116 Blacks Outdoor outlets and 32 Freespirit stores.
