Young women’s apparel chain exploring options

Industry experts are predicting that Bebe stores will be the next apparel retailer to declare Chapter 11.



The fashion retailer on Thursday said it had retained B. Riley & Co.as financial advisor, and has also has hired a real estate advisor to “assist with options related to its lease holdings."



According to reports, Bebe is trying to conduct turnaround efforts that would have it close its stores and shift its focus entirely online without filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. But Bloomberg reported that it may have no choice but to file if its landlords are unwilling to negotiate. Although Bebe has no significant debt, it has lost about $200 million over the past four years, and negotiating with landlords to get out of leases may prove challenging.



Bebe currently operates 134 retail stores, 34 outlet stores and an e-commerce site. In addition to its stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, Bebe also distributes and sells Bebe branded product in approximately 75 doors through its licensees in more than 21 countries.