Laura Ashley’s six stores in the Republic will remain open, The Irish Times understands, as the company fights for survival after the coronavirus exacerbated a recent downturn in profitability. The home retailer said on Monday that 70 of its UK stores will close, leading to the loss of as many as 721 jobs. The company could not spell out what would happen in the future for its Irish stores, but they will remain open for the immediate future at least, The Irish Times has learned. “I remain unwavering in my belief that Laura Ashley can and should retain the place it deserves in the international retail landscape,” the company’s chief executive, Katharine Poulter, said. In total, British entity controls 154 stores and 77 of those will remain open in the UK as will its online operation.

Source: The Irish Times March 23, 2020 13:24 UTC