The future of a storied American outfitter is once again clouded by uncertainty, as reports swirl that an Eddie Bauer bankruptcy filing may be imminent.
Multiple outlets, including Business Insider, report that as many as 180 retail locations across North America could shutter if the financial restructuring proceeds — a move that would send ripples through malls and shopping centers already grappling with shifting consumer habits.
Chapter 11 Filing Reportedly in the Works
Catalyst Brands, the company licensed to operate Eddie Bauer stores in the United States and Canada, is preparing for a potential Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, according to a source familiar with the situation who spoke to PEOPLE.
Business intelligence platform Octus indicated that the filing could come as early as February. Sources who disclosed Catalyst’s mid-January plans cautioned that discussions remain fluid and that the strategy could still change.
Eddie Bauer currently operates roughly 200 brick-and-mortar stores worldwide, with the vast majority concentrated in the U.S. and Canada. If the reported Chapter 11 filing materializes, about 180 North American locations may be affected.
