Philly-originated Deb Shops to close stores nationwide

Gordon Brothers Group and Hilco Merchant Resources announced in a press release that they will close all 287 of their Deb Shops retail locations. According to the release, going-out-of-business sales on all junior- and plus-sized apparel, including tops, sweaters, jeans, pants, dresses, activewear, outerwear and lingerie, will begin today, Jan. 9, and range from 30 percent to 50 percent off.  The release also specifies that "store furniture, fixtures and equipment" also will go on sale.

Judging by the Deb Shops website, the closing will impact five stores in the Philadelphia region, one of which is within city limits at 2329 Cottman Ave. PhillyVoice.com reached out to the location and confirmed it will be closing. No word was given on what the store-specific sales will be or on the exact closing date.

Judging by the language in the press release, though, the stores won't be open for much longer, as they're pushing out existing material and encouraging promptness on the shopper's end.

"We anticipate that this will be a short sale due to the outstanding savings and the very desirable assortment of fashion and accessories. Consumers are encouraged to shop early to enjoy the greatest selection," Mike Keefe, president and CEO of Hilco Merchant Resources, said in a press release.

Deb Shops was originally founded in 1932 in Philadelphia as JOY Hosiery. It changed its name in 1970 to Deb Shops to open up its audience to both women's and young girls' fashion apparel. 

PhillyVoice.com has reached out to Gordon Brothers for comment and will update when more information becomes available.