DIYWEEK.net

The Qatar-based Al Mana Group, which bought BHS in 2016, will close down UK-based BHS.com following “a strategic review” of the business, with plans to focus resources on its international store-based business.

Initial feedback suggested the website was trading well following its launch, but it has been announced that the UK-based online retailer will close its website on Wednesday, June 27, with final deliveries to customers by Wednesday, July 5. 

Al Mana Group said in a statement that it remains fully committed to expanding and investing in its franchise stores business, BHS International – adding that it is in late-stage negotiations with several new partners. 

A BHS company spokesperson said: “The 18 members of our BHS.com team, along with all suppliers, will be treated fairly and equitably as the website is closed down. We’d like to thank our team, suppliers and our customers for all their support over the past 20 months’. 

The Qatari-based conglomerate, Al Mana Group purchased the BHS brand on June 30, 2016 - after the retail chain collapsed into administration - taking on the worldwide IP, international franchising business and all domain names. The company said at the time that it planned to turn BHS “into a steady and profitable operation”, enhancing the retail offer, expanding into new territories and developing the online presence of the brand.

It added: “The British heritage of BHS is one of quality and value, we are confidant [sic] that, with this acquisition, such a legacy will grow and succeed in new markets. The potential growth opportunities are very exciting.”