Gordmans
Off-price department store chain offering brand-name merchandise at discount prices.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Sun Capital Partners2008-06-12
What Made It Great
Off-price retailer with brand-name merchandise at significant discounts
What PE Will Likely Do
Gordmans will likely experience a significant decline in the quality and selection of brand-name merchandise, as Sun Capital Partners implements aggressive cost-cutting measures to improve short-term profitability.
Gordmans stores will likely experience noticeable deterioration in terms of cleanliness, organization, and overall shopping experience as the company defers maintenance and renovations.
Gordmans may eventually file for bankruptcy or be sold off in a fire sale, as the PE firm's business model proves unsustainable for the retailer.
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Announcements about 'transforming' Gordmans into a more efficient 'off-price' retailer, with promises of improved value for customers.
“6 to 12 months months”
First round of store closures and staff reductions announced, as the company looks to cut costs.
“12 to 24 months months”
Customers begin to notice a decline in the quality and selection of brand-name merchandise, as Gordmans reduces inventory levels and sources cheaper, lower-quality products.
“24 to 48 months months”
Gordmans stores show visible signs of neglect, with fewer renovations, outdated fixtures, and a generally unkempt appearance. Bankruptcy rumors start to circulate.
“48 to 60 months months”
Gordmans files for bankruptcy or is sold off in a fire sale, as the PE firm's debt-heavy model proves unsustainable for the retailer.
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be prepared for a decline in the quality and selection of brand-name merchandise at Gordmans stores.
Expect a deterioration in the overall shopping experience, with stores becoming less clean, organized, and well-maintained.
Consider shopping at alternative off-price retailers that may be able to provide a more consistent and reliable customer experience.
Alternatives
Employee-owned warehouse retailer
Publicly traded retailer with strong values