The UK's number one kitchen retailer has announced plans to close all of its stores in a major market after filing for bankruptcy liquidation only days ago.
Wren Kitchens has shut down all 15 of its locations in the US, with all of the UK-based firm's employees in country losing their jobs.
The company is widely known in Britain as the country's top retailer for fitted kitchens, but has struggled to replicate its success across the pond.
As of last week, Wren Kitchens has ceased operations in all of its locations in the East Coast of the US, as well as its Wren Kitchen Studios inside Home Depot stores.
Wren Kitchens has closed all of its stores in the US
|GETTY
On April 24, the family-owned business filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation, which is a process that allows firms to get scrap debt by selling assets to creditors.
Last Friday, Wren US Holdings Inc. began the proceedings at the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, listing between $100million (£74million) to $500million (£371million) in assets.
Reports suggest store employees were only informed of the closures, which took place with immediate effect, on April 23 via a Zoom call
It is reported that employees at the stores were not given notice before losing their jobs. They were informed on a Zoom call on April 23 that all stores and showrooms would be closing with immediate effect.
Britons have turned to Wren Kitchens to fit their ideal kitchen
| GETTYLATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Claire's is also leaving the high street
| GETTYIn a statement, Home Depot said: "Wren Kitchens has alerted us that they’ve ceased operations in the United States, which includes closing their showrooms in our stores.
"We had no previous notice of Wren’s intent to close, and we’re actively evaluating how this has affected Wren customers to help those who may have questions or issues. For questions about operations, please contact Wren directly."
In a message found on Wren Kitchens' US website, the company shared: "We regret to inform you that our showrooms and studios are now closed. If you require assistance, please click the button and complete the form."
It should be noted that no store closures or job redundancies have been announced at any Wren Kitchens locations in the UK.
Britain's high streets have struggled in recent years | PAIn Britain, the retailer operates more than 150 showrooms and employs over 4,500 members of staff.
Store closures in the UK have been an issue plaguing high streets for years, with major retailers shutting doors for good amid changing consumer behaviour and a strict tax regime.
Yesterday, Claire's Accessories announced plans to close all of its remaining stores in the UK, with over 1,000 jobs expected to be lost.
GB News has contacted Wren Kitchens for comment.