More Bonmarché stores rescued from closure

The private equity firm is aiming to save 280 stores in total and is holding discussions with landlords regarding the further 25 shops.

Sun bought 390 of the 393 Bonmarché stores in a pre-pack administration deal on January 20. It initially earmarked 165 stores for closure to “ensure that the company can be placed on a sound economic footing”. 21 stores have already shut.

A Bonmarché spokeswoman said: “We are thrilled that we now have more stores remaining open and can secure employment for approximately 2,600 employees [in total]. 

“We would like to extend a special thanks to all of our customers for their support and messages of encouragement during this very difficult time.”

Retail restructuring specialist GA Europe is working with Sun European to manage the stores marked for closure.

Bonmarché hit the buffers when its sister chain Peacocks collapsed into administration last month. Value fashion chain Peacocks was bought by Edinburgh Woollen Mill last week, saving 338 stores.

Retail Week tipped the acquisition by Sun European a week before the deal happened.