French fashion brand Jennyfer faces closure, 999 jobs at risk
French clothing brand Jennyfer is facing collapse, putting the future of 999 employees at risk. Plans are underway to close 300 stores. Despite efforts to reposition the brand by the new owner, the company remains unprofitable.
The French chain of women's and teenage clothing stores has filed for judicial liquidation after 40 years of operation. The portal fashionnetwork.com reports that the ruling was issued on 30 April by the commercial court in Bobigny.
End of the French fashion brand: 300 stores to be closed
As a result of Jennyfer's announcement of liquidation, 999 people are set to lose their jobs. 300 stores located both in France and internationally (including Belgium and North African countries) are to be closed.
The company's management has assured employees that salaries for May will be paid, albeit with delays. Operations are expected to continue until 28 May, and interested buyers can submit takeover offers, either partial or full, until 13 May.
In their application, the company's management highlighted ongoing financial difficulties. The company has struggled with rapidly increasing costs, decreasing consumer purchasing power, and pressure from global brands.
Despite annual sales of 250 million euros, the brand has failed to survive in the market.
The company tried its luck in Eastern Europe
Jennyfer was a popular brand in the 2000s but could not withstand market transformations. In 2019, it underwent a rebranding and began operating under the name "Don't Call Me Jennyfer."
In June 2024, the company emerged from protective proceedings, hoping for a new start. Shortly after, it was taken over by two French entrepreneurs with financial backing from the Chinese clothing company Shanghai Pure Fashion Garments. At that time, the brand reverted to its original name.
German clothing brand Gerry Weber faces difficulties
Other European clothing companies are also experiencing challenges. At the end of March 2025, the court declared bankruptcy for three subsidiaries of the German clothing company Gerry Weber. These include: Gerry Weber DE GmbH (responsible for retail operations in Germany), E-Gerry Weber Digital GmbH (the online store operator), and Life-Style Fashion GmbH (supplier to wholesale customers).
The company assures that its physical stores and online channels will continue operating without changes. The goal is restructuring and finding a new investor.
