House of Fraser set to announce store closures this week as new owner Mike Ashley blames 'greedy landlords'
Beatties owner House of Fraser is set to announce a spate of store closures this week, with new owner Mike Ashley blaming "greedy landlords" for potentially hundreds of job losses.
The Sports Direct tycoon, who recently bought the department store chain out of administration for £90 million, has been in tense talks with landlords over rents in recent weeks.
Those negotiations have resulted in around seven House of Frasers being saved from closure, including in Oxford Street, Telford and Plymouth. But talks are continuing with the landlords of stores such as Beatties in Wolverhampton.
Mr Ashley's property team are deep in talks with the owners the Beatties site.
The building was bought from House of Fraser for £47 million after the department chain bought the Beatties chain in 2005. It has subsequently passed through the hands of several owners.
The tracksuit billionaire has now turned up the heat after warning today that "time is running out" for the remainder of the 59-store estate. An announcement is expected tomorrow.
A spokesman for House of Fraser said: "Some landlords are being very collaborative in order to give us a chance at turning the business around, giving House of Fraser a lifeline and saving hundreds of jobs.
"However, some greedy landlords would rather see the stores close than help save the jobs of hundreds of people.
"We will continue to try and convince these landlords but ultimately time is running out. Some closures will be announced."
It is understood that landlords are reluctant to agree to the low rents Mr Ashley is demanding.
Mr Ashley, who also owns Newcastle United, has pledged to save around 47 of House of Fraser's 59 outlets since buying the chain.
He recently struck a deal to save House of Fraser's flagship store in Oxford Street.
Mr Ashley said: "It is a massive step forward and further enhances our strategy of elevation across the group.
"My ambition is to transform House of Fraser into the Harrods of the high street.
"We will do our best to keep as many stores open as possible."
Meanwhile thousands of people have joined the Express & Star's We're Backing Beatties campaign, urging Mike Ashley to save the historic Wolverhampton store.
It was founded in 1877 by James Beattie, who established the Victoria Draper Supply Store in Victoria Street.
