WATCH: Falkirk shoppers react to news of Debenhams' possible closure

Retail union Usdaw was responding to news Falkirk Howgate Shopping Centre’s Debenhams branch could be closing down for good.

The Falkirk premises is just one of 124 branches throughout the UK under threat after the collapse of Arcadia which owns Top Shop, Dorothy Perkins, Burton and Top Man – with those brands hosting many Debenhams outlets.

JD Sports has also dropped its bid to rescue Debenhams.

Administrators are now set to start a wind-down of the entire Debenhams UK operation, but state they will continue to work at seeking offers for all or parts of the business, and the chain will continue to trade through its UK stores and online to clear its current and contracted stocks.

However, it was stated at the conclusion of this process, if no alternative offers have been received, all UK operations – including Falkirk – will close.

Usdaw stated it was seeking urgent meetings with Debenhams’ administrators and is urging them to treat staff with fairness and dignity. It is also demanding the UK Government work with employers and the union to develop an urgent recovery plan for retail.

Paddy Lillis, Usdaw general secretary, said: “It is devastating news for our high streets that Debenhams’ administrators have announced a closure programme. Throughout Debenhams’ difficulties the company and then administrators have refused to engage with Usdaw, the staff are being treated appallingly and we don’t believe the law has been complied with in the past.

“Over the Summer redundancies were made by conference call, with no meaningful consultation or proper notice period, as required by law. That must not happen again and we urge the administrators to engage with Usdaw, the trade union for Debenhams staff.

“It is crucial that their voice is heard and they are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. We continue to provide our members with the support, advice and legal representation they need at this very difficult time.

“Retail is crucial to our town and city centres, it employs around three million people across the UK. The Government must take this seriously; we need a recovery plan to get the industry back on its feet.”

There was optimism back in July when Debenhams re-opened its Falkirk store following lockdown.

At the time Susan Reid, retail director, said: “We are delighted to welcome back our Scottish customers as we reopen the final group of stores in Scotland next week. We are able in our stores to accommodate two metre social distancing comfortably, and we have equipped our colleagues with visors as well as screening off our tills.

“This underscores our commitment to the safety and well being of our customers and colleagues whilst ensuring their comfort and convenience is maintained.”

The 242-year-old company, which has already cut 6500 jobs, had been considering a potential sale since the summer after it went into administration in April for the second time in a year.