Local clothing stores to remain open under creditor protection

THOMPSON-OKANAGAN – The company behind Cleo, Bootlegger and Ricki’s has filed for creditor protection but says at this point all stores will remain open.

Comark Inc. filed for protection today, March 26 and plans on using it to bring stability to restructuring of its operations.

"For our customers and employees, what is most important is that our Ricki's, Bootlegger and Cleo stores across Canada remain open for business," said Gerry Bachynski, President and CEO of Comark. "As we work through the restructuring process, we will continue to stock the latest mix of exclusive private-label and nationally branded apparel, and all of our popular rewards programs, gift cards, warranties and exchanges will be honoured. We remain committed to providing the same superior service customers have come to expect from us."

While the plan is to keep stores open across Canada some under-performing stores will be closed over the next 30 days and the staffing levels at regional offices and distribution centres will be reviewed.

There are Cleo, Bootlegger and Ricki’s stores in Kamloops, Kelowna and Penticton. Salmon Arm and Vernon both have Bootlegger and Ricki’s stores. It is not known at this time if any of these stores are possibly on the chopping block.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Jennifer Stahn at jstahn@infonews.ca or call 250-819-3723. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.