Jennyfer, the renowned French ready-to-wear brand targeting young women, has announced its intention to file for judicial liquidation this Wednesday, April 30, 2025. This decision comes less than a year after the brand emerged from a judicial restructuring in June 2024. The company cited an unsustainable economic model due to skyrocketing costs, decreased purchasing power, shifts in the textile market, and increasingly aggressive international competition as the primary reasons for this drastic step.
The potential liquidation puts nearly 1,000 jobs at risk, with the cessation of activities scheduled for May 28. On this date, any potential offers from buyers for the brand will be reviewed. The CGT Services union has expressed concerns over the precarious situation facing the employees, criticizing the management and the state for their roles in the impending job losses. The union's statement highlights the dire circumstances the employees are about to face, with 999 positions on the line.
Founded in 1984, Jennyfer had previously undergone a judicial restructuring in June 2023, attributed to a sudden increase in costs coupled with rampant inflation. The brand had attempted a revival with a new identity, 'Don't Call Me Jennyfer,' and an initial investment of 15 million euros, alongside the introduction of a new shareholder. Despite these efforts, the brand struggled to regain its footing in a market increasingly dominated by hyper fast-fashion competitors like Shein, which continue to challenge the viability of older, budget-friendly brands.
The French government has recently proposed measures to combat the challenges posed by hyper fast-fashion, signaling a recognition of the sector's struggles. However, for Jennyfer, these measures may come too late. The brand's journey reflects the broader difficulties facing the ready-to-wear industry, where traditional players must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape marked by intense competition and changing consumer preferences.