Bebe Plans to Shut Its Stores and Focus on Web Sales
- The move follows four years of losses for fashion chain
- Company may mull bankruptcy if it can’t get out of leases
LAS VEGAS - JANUARY 12: Shoppers pass the store as Adrianna Costa hosts bebe at Miracle Mile's 'Bold New Look' event on January 12, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Photographer: Isaac Brekken/WireImage via Getty ImagesBebe Stores Inc., a women’s apparel chain with locations across the U.S., is planning to shut its stores and seek a turnaround as an online brand, according to people familiar with the situation.
The company is trying to close the locations without filing for bankruptcy, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the efforts aren’t public. However, Chapter 11 may be required if enough landlords aren’t willing to negotiate, they said. The company, known for selling trendy going-out apparel to young women, has been operating about 170 boutique and outlet stores.