British department store group Debenhams is set to cut hundreds of head office jobs, slimming down its administrative functions to support a smaller business going forward. Around 160 jobs have gone from the merchandising department and a similar number from buying. Other jobs in design and human resources have also been cut.

The retailer plans to open doors again to customers from June 15 with 90 stores initially, followed by another 30 over summer.

Last month Debenhams went into administration for the second time in a year, seeking to protect itself from legal action by creditors during the coronavirus crisis that could have pushed it into liquidation.

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