The Swedish fashion giant said it has written to landlords to ask for "relief on the rents and charges for the period". On Monday, the group reported that sales across Europe have been "negatively impacted" by the coronavirus outbreak, with stores in Poland, Spain, France and Belgium all temporarily shut. In a statement, H&M said: "This is an extreme situation and H&M Group is working extensively to manage the Covid-19 situation, the highest priority being the safety of employees and customers." "For H&M Group, this has resulted in the closure of multiple affected stores in various cities and countries and a large drop in traffic in many locations. (Image: Lee McLean / SWNS)On Monday, Debenhams called for an immediate five-month rent holiday as the industry faces "unprecedented pressures" because of the pandemic.

Source: Daily Mirror March 17, 2020 14:39 UTC