Cecil McBee forced to close all stores
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Japanese clothing label Cecil McBee is shutting down all of its physical outlets in its home territory.
The brand has operated since the 80s, targeting a young fashionable market, but has struggled to remain relevant against Forever 21, H&M and other newer brands for more than a decade before the Covid-19 pandemic dealt a death blow.
Cecil McBee’s decision acknowledges that the brand could not survive another outbreak with a period of store shutdowns. It will, however, continue to trade online.
Cecil McBee’s 43 stores will close consecutively throughout Japan, with final closures to be made by February next year, according to reporting by Nikkei. Its fashionable Shibuya branch will shut down before this December.
Several sister brands under parent firm Japan Imagination will likewise be discontinued, resulting in the closures of 92 additional stores and the retiring of 570 staff.
The company’s other brands are Ank Rouge, Jamie ANK, Be Radiance, Fabulous Angela, Sophila, Agplus, Cachec and Rumour.s.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary reason for Cecil McBee's decision to close its physical stores?
What is the primary reason for Cecil McBee's decision to close its physical stores?
The brand has struggled against competitors for over a decade. The Covid-19 pandemic delivered a 'death blow', making it clear Cecil McBee could not survive further store shutdowns or another outbreak.
Q.Will Cecil McBee cease trading entirely after closing its physical stores?
Will Cecil McBee cease trading entirely after closing its physical stores?
No, Cecil McBee will continue to operate. Although its physical outlets are closing, the brand has made a decision to continue trading through its online platform.
Q.How many Cecil McBee stores are affected by these closures and when will they all shut?
How many Cecil McBee stores are affected by these closures and when will they all shut?
All 43 Cecil McBee stores across Japan are affected. They will close consecutively, with the final closures expected to be completed by February next year.
Q.Are other brands owned by Japan Imagination also closing physical locations?
Are other brands owned by Japan Imagination also closing physical locations?
Yes, several sister brands under the parent firm Japan Imagination will also be discontinued. This will result in an additional 92 store closures and 570 staff being retired.