Womenswear chain Pimkie announced on Wednesday that it plans to close 64 stores by 2027 as part of a restructuring plan by its owner Pimkinvest. This decision will lead to a gradual reduction of 257 jobs.
This “savings plan” is based on a “declining number of customers and sales,” according to a statement from the brand published in February by Pimkinvest, a consortium led by groups Lee Cooper France, Amoniss (Kindy) and Ibisler Tekstil. was acquired by the Mulliez family holding company AFM.
Pimkie union officials had warned of an upcoming Job Savings Plan (PSE) in early February, fearing at the time about 500 jobs would be lost.
“Reduce the number of closures”
“Possibilities to reduce the number of closures will be carefully explored whenever possible, primarily in conjunction with Pimkie’s financial partners,” the statement said. The plan aims to “engage Pimkie in a long-term project that is based on a sound structure,” according to the brand’s management. Pimkie lists several plans, including “offering and image modernization,” “digital transformation,” and “enhancing commercial performance.”
The company wants to do everything possible to offer solutions that favor the re-employment of workers, through “internal retraining” and “personal follow-up”, the company assured. Managing Director Sandrine Lilienfeld hopes Pimkie can regain its place in the top three most popular brands among women aged 18-25.
In October, the brand, long owned by AFM, announced it had entered exclusive negotiations for a takeover. The sale closed on February 22nd. Pimkie currently employs 1,500 people and operates 232 owned and 81 affiliated stores.
Fashion sector in crisis
Ready-to-wear fashion in France has been in crisis for several months. This is particularly reflected in the liquidation of Camaïeu in September 2022 and in the bankruptcy proceedings of Go Sport, Gap France and Kookaï earlier in the year.
On February 20, the shoe manufacturer San Marina filed for bankruptcy, affecting 650 employees. The Kaporal brand, which specializes in jeans and employs 534 people, announced on Tuesday that it will file an application for court reorganization proceedings. (AFP)
This translated and edited post previously appeared on FashionUnited.fr.