Coventry Debenhams is on its way out too: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/closing-down-sale-coventrys-debenhams-19509717

As rents fall due they'll fall like nine-pins.

What is going to be interesting is how the government try to prop up the property market.

It's already happening in Stratford. I've spotted 2-3 shops that look like they've closed down for good, and another with 'Closing Down' signs in the window.

I think we're only seeing the tip of a very big iceberg, Lex. There will be a lot more pain after Christmas.

Whilst many are conveniently blaming covid on this, the accountancy profession must take some blame. It was accountants that pushed many companies into selling and then leasing back properties in order for short term gains on the balance sheet. Many of us saw potential issues with this at the time.

Another 12,000 in the dole queue; it's going to be a long haul to get the economy back to where it was 12 months ago.

It is, Lex. My heart goes out to the employees.

A shame to see Debenhams disappear: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-55142724

I moved out of Stratford several years ago, I got so fed up with it. Unfortunately, I had to move to another office last year, so I now have to drive through the bl**dy place every day.

Things are changing so fast, Lex. Its' like the end of an era for me if Debenhams go! It is a great shame. I think Stratford now is a rip off and just geared for tourists , and visitors more and more, getting busier and busier, the roads can hardly take the traffic as it is.

Looks like Debenhams is going to bee booted out of Stratford. I'm not particularly impressed, as I buy a lot of clothes from there, and there're already plans for 2 other big hotels in the town centre: http://www.stratford-herald.com/102272-debenhams-likely-close-2021-hotel-retail-plan-emerges.html

A death by 1000 cuts. Surely best to grasp the nettle and do what needs doing rather than letting it linger on?

Another reprieve for C&W's stores: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/debenhams-store-closures-full-list-16946198

Yes, at one time (not that long ago actually) M&S were seen as gilt edged stock.

M&S could be another case of a long, slow decline. The BBC news mentioned it's at risk of dropping out of the FTSE 100 for the 1st time since the index's creation.

Yes, but I think we are safe around here.

M&S are looking to close more stores.