Jane Norman collapses into administration for second time in three years

The retailer, acquired by Edinburgh Woollen Mill in a pre-pack administration deal in 2011, has placed its 24 UK and Ireland shops in administration but the retailer will continue to trade its online and international business.

The retailer set up a new trading company, Jane Norman International, in March.

Grant Thornton has been appointed as administrator. Store closures are likely.

Jane Norman employs 57 full-time staff and around 100 part-time.

A Jane Norman spokesman said: “Like many retailers, we have seen extremely challenging conditions on the high street for several years in what is a very competitive sector in young fashion. While we have made every effort for a number of years to makes those stores work, that part of the business is no longer viable.

“At the same time, however, we fundamentally believe in the Jane Norman brand and its future as a web and international concessions business. For that reason we have taken the difficult decision to restructure the business to focus on future opportunities.”

Les Ross, partner at Grant Thornton said: “We intend to continue trading the stores for as long as possible with a view to achieving the best outcome for all concerned, in particular those people based in the stores. It is likely, however, that store closures are inevitable.”