Overview
- Multiple outlets report that Catalyst Brands is preparing a Chapter 11 filing tied to Eddie Bauer’s U.S. and Canadian store operations, with roughly 180 locations at risk of closure.
- Local reporting and staff notices indicate closures have begun, with liquidation sales underway at various stores and a Bend, Oregon outlet told to shut by April 30.
- The contemplated filing is reported to exclude manufacturing, e-commerce, wholesale channels, and stores outside North America, and other Catalyst-managed brands are not expected to be affected.
- Authentic Brands Group, which owns Eddie Bauer’s intellectual property, outlined a January plan to expand digital growth and wholesale distribution for the brand.
- Business Insider reports potential bidders may seek rights to operate some or all stores, a move that could keep portions of the fleet open under new operators.