Iconic Fashion Retailer Files for Bankruptcy, Closing All 80 U.S. Locations After 56 Years

According to The Sun, Esprit, a brand that once epitomized style in the ’80s and ’90s, has officially filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, resulting in the closure of all 80 of its U.S. locations. After 56 years in the industry, this significant move marks a dramatic downfall for a once-iconic name in global fashion.

Financial Struggles and Headquarter Closure

The bankruptcy filing was submitted in the Southern District of New York, as the company grapples with liabilities exceeding $3 million. Esprit is also preparing to shut down its 38,000-square-foot headquarters in Manhattan, which had opened in February 2023 as part of an ambitious strategy to reclaim a foothold in the competitive U.S. market. This facility was meant to serve as a hub for the brand’s global creative, design, and branding teams, housing a photo studio and showroom.

What Went Wrong?

Founded in San Francisco, Esprit struggled to adapt to the fast-paced fashion world, gradually retreating from the U.S. market in 2012. Despite efforts to reinvigorate its brand presence, the harsh financial realities proved overwhelming. Initially, the New York office employed 115 staff members, but financial constraints forced drastic layoffs, shrinking the team to just 50 earlier this year.

Tony Strippoli, COO of Esprit in the Americas, acknowledged the unsustainable nature of the business, stating, “With costs and rents and the state of the business, it was unsustainable… we ramped up too fast.” This sentiment underscores the operational challenges that have plagued the brand for years.

European Challenges Compound Issues

Esprit’s difficulties are not confined to the U.S. market. The company has faced significant struggles in Europe, where ongoing financial instability has adversely impacted its North American operations. Earlier this year, Esprit closed 160 stores across Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland due to bankruptcies, further casting doubt on the brand’s sustainability, even in its original strongholds.

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Farewell to a Nostalgic Brand

While Esprit continues to enjoy a loyal fan base that fondly remembers its vibrant collections, its attempts to establish a strong presence in the U.S. ultimately succumbed to mounting debts. The liquidation of its U.S. operations marks the end of an era for a brand that once captured the essence of ’80s California youth culture.

Despite this setback, Esprit’s parent company, Esprit Holdings Limited, remains operational, with its headquarters in Hong Kong and a limited presence in Europe. However, the hopes of a U.S. resurgence have now been dashed.

Consumer Reaction and Industry Impact

The closure of once-popular brands can be a tough pill for fans to swallow. A year after its bankruptcy filing, Bed Bath & Beyond fans continue to plead for the brand’s return, while the company has finally responded to rumors of a comeback.

Additionally, Big Lots has filed for Chapter 11 after several weeks of speculation, announcing plans to close 545 stores. Similarly, LL Flooring submitted its bankruptcy filing in August and will be closing about half of its over 400 locations while changing its name.