Debenhams to shut seven stores with loss of 422 jobs

Debenhams has confirmed the closure of seven stores with the loss of 422 jobs after it went into administration last week.

The department store firm said it has agreed terms with landlords to continue trading at 120 of its 142 UK stores.

Stores located in Stratford upon Avon and Leamington Spa will be affected by the move.

It is understood the group is in ongoing talks over the remaining stores and is confident more deals will be secured in the coming days.

Stefaan Vansteenkiste, chief executive officer of Debenhams, said: "I'mdelighted with the progress we are making with our landlord discussions which reflects the pragmatic view the vast majority of them are taking of the current market conditions.

He added: "We have agreed terms on the vast majority of our UK stores and talks are proceeding positively on the remainder, positioning us to reopen these stores when government regulations permit.