Latest news with #RestructuringSupportAgreement
Business Wire
11 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Wolfspeed Takes Proactive Step to Strengthen Financial Foundation Anticipating Scalable, Profitable Growth
DURHAM, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF) ('Wolfspeed' or the 'Company') today announced that, as part of its efforts to proactively strengthen its capital structure, it entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (the 'RSA') with key lenders, including (i) holders of more than 97% of its senior secured notes, (ii) Renesas Electronics Corporation's wholly owned U.S. subsidiary and (iii) convertible debtholders holding more than 67% of the outstanding convertible notes. The transactions envisioned by the RSA are expected to reduce the Company's overall debt by approximately 70%, representing a reduction of approximately $4.6 billion, and reduce the Company's annual total cash interest payments by approximately 60%. By taking this proactive step, the Company expects to be better positioned to execute on its long-term growth strategy and accelerate its path to profitability. This marks the positive culmination of discussions between the Company and key lenders to restructure the Company's capital structure on an expedited basis and help to ensure Wolfspeed maintains its position as a leader in the silicon carbide market. 'After evaluating potential options to strengthen our balance sheet and right-size our capital structure, we have decided to take this strategic step because we believe it will put Wolfspeed in the best position possible for the future,' said Robert Feurle, Wolfspeed's Chief Executive Officer. 'Wolfspeed has tremendous core strengths and great potential. We are a global leader in silicon carbide technology with an exceptional, purpose-built, fully automated 200mm manufacturing footprint, delivering cutting-edge products for our customers. A stronger financial foundation will enable us to focus acutely on innovation in rapidly scaling verticals undergoing electrification where quality, durability and efficiency matter most.' Feurle continued, 'As we move forward, we are grateful for the confidence and support of key lenders, who share our vision for the future and believe in our growth prospects. I also want to thank our incredibly talented team for their resilience and hard work, and our customers and partners for their ongoing support.' Additional Information Regarding the RSA Key terms of the RSA are as follows: Pursuant to the transactions contemplated by the RSA, the Company will receive $275 million of new financing in the form of second lien convertible notes, fully backstopped by certain of its existing convertible debtholders. The RSA contemplates a paydown of its senior secured notes of $250 million at a rate of 109.875%, with certain modifications to reduce go-forward cash interest and minimum liquidity requirements. The RSA also contemplates an exchange of $5.2 billion of existing convertible notes and Renesas' existing loan for $500 million of new notes and 95% of the new common equity, subject to dilution from other equity issuances, with Renesas loan claims entitled to additional incremental consideration to the extent certain regulatory approvals are not obtained by an agreed upon deadline. Pursuant to the transactions, existing equity will be cancelled, and the existing equity holders will receive their pro rata share of 3% or 5% of new common equity, subject to dilution from other equity issuances and potential reduction from certain events. All other unsecured creditors are expected to be paid in the ordinary course of business. To implement the transactions envisioned by the RSA, the Company intends to solicit approval of the pre-packaged plan of reorganization and then file voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code in the near future. Wolfspeed expects to move through this process expeditiously and emerge by the end of third quarter calendar year 2025. Wolfspeed is continuing to operate and serve customers with leading silicon carbide materials and devices throughout the process. The Company plans to continue to pay vendors in the ordinary course of business for goods and services delivered throughout the restructuring process via an All-Trade Motion. Vendors are expected to be unimpaired in the process. Wolfspeed also intends to file customary motions with the Bankruptcy Court to support ordinary-course operations including, but not limited to, continuing employee compensation and benefits programs. Additional details regarding the RSA will be provided in the Company's Form 8-K to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC'). This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or purchase any securities, which would be made only pursuant to definitive documents and an applicable exemption from the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. This press release does not constitute a solicitation to vote on the bankruptcy plan. For additional information regarding the restructuring, please visit Wolfspeed's dedicated microsite at Advisors Latham & Watkins LLP and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP are serving as legal counsel to Wolfspeed, Perella Weinberg Partners is serving as financial advisor and FTI Consulting is serving as restructuring advisor. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP is serving as legal counsel to the senior secured noteholders and Moelis & Company is serving as the senior secured noteholders' financial advisor. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as legal counsel to Renesas Electronics Corporation, PJT Partners is serving as its financial advisor, and BofA Securities is serving as its structuring advisor. Ropes & Gray LLP is serving as legal counsel to the convertible debtholders and Ducera Partners is serving as financial advisor to the convertible debtholders. About Wolfspeed, Inc. Wolfspeed (NYSE: WOLF) leads the market in the worldwide adoption of silicon carbide technologies that power the world's most disruptive innovations. As the pioneers of silicon carbide, and creators of the most advanced semiconductor technology on earth, we are committed to powering a better world for everyone. Through silicon carbide material, Power Modules, Discrete Power Devices and Power Die Products targeted for various applications, we will bring you The Power to Make It Real. TM Learn more at Forward Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements involving risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown, that may cause Wolfspeed's actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, including estimates, forecasts and projections about possible or assumed future results of Wolfspeed's business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, objectives and Wolfspeed's industry and market growth. Words such as 'could,' 'will,' 'may,' 'assume,' 'forecast,' 'position,' 'predict,' 'strategy,' 'expect,' 'intend,' 'plan,' 'estimate,' 'anticipate,' 'believe,' 'project,' 'budget,' 'potential,' 'forward' or 'continue' and similar expressions are used to identify forward-looking statements. All statements in this press release that are not historical are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the timing and implementation of the transactions contemplated by the RSA, the intent to solicit approval of the pre-packaged plan of reorganization (the 'Plan') to implement the transactions contemplated by the RSA and file voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (the 'Chapter 11 Cases'), Wolfspeed's ability to continue operating in the ordinary course, including continuing to serve customers and pay vendors in the ordinary course, the potential benefits of the transactions contemplated by the RSA and the potential effects of such transactions on Wolfspeed's financial position, profitability and growth. Actual results could differ materially due to a number of factors, including but not limited to, risks and uncertainties associated with the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases; the effects of the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases on Wolfspeed and Wolfspeed's relationship with its various stakeholders, including vendors and customers; Wolfspeed's ability to develop and implement the transactions contemplated by the RSA, whether the Plan will be approved by the Bankruptcy Court and the ultimate outcome of the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases in general; the length of time Wolfspeed will operate under the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases; the potential adverse effects of the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases on Wolfspeed's liquidity and results of operations; if the RSA is terminated, Wolfspeed's ability to confirm and consummate the Plan could be materially and adversely affected; the RSA is subject to significant conditions and milestones that may be difficult for Wolfspeed to satisfy; the timing or amount of any recovery, if any, to Wolfspeed's stakeholders; uncertainty regarding Wolfspeed's ability to retain key personnel; increased administrative and legal costs related to the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases; changes in Wolfspeed's ability to meet its financial obligations during the Chapter 11 Cases and to maintain contracts that are critical to its operations; the effectiveness of the overall restructuring activities pursuant to the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases and any additional strategies that Wolfspeed may employ to address its liquidity and capital resources and achieve its stated goals; the actions and decisions of equityholders, creditors, regulators and other third parties that have an interest in the anticipated Chapter 11 Cases, which may interfere with the ability to confirm and consummate the Plan and implement the transactions contemplated by the RSA; ongoing uncertainty in global economic and geopolitical conditions, such as the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East; changes in progress on infrastructure development or changes in customer or industrial demand that could negatively affect product demand, including as a result of an economic slowdown or recession, collectability of receivables and other related matters if consumers and businesses defer purchases or payments, or default on payments; risks associated with Wolfspeed's expansion plans, including design and construction delays, cost overruns, the timing and amount of government incentives actually received, including, among other things, any direct grants and tax credits, issues in installing and qualifying new equipment and ramping production, poor production process yields and quality control and potential increases to Wolfspeed's restructuring costs; Wolfspeed's ability to obtain additional funding, including, among other things, from government funding, public or private equity offerings or debt financings, on favorable terms and on a timely basis, if at all; Wolfspeed's ability to take certain actions with respect to its capital and debt structure; the risk that Wolfspeed does not meet its production commitments to those customers who provide Wolfspeed with capacity reservation deposits or similar payments; the risk that Wolfspeed may experience production difficulties that preclude it from shipping sufficient quantities to meet customer orders or that result in higher production costs, lower yields and lower margins; Wolfspeed's ability to lower costs; the risk that Wolfspeed's results will suffer if it is unable to balance fluctuations in customer demand and capacity, including bringing on additional capacity on a timely basis to meet customer demand or scaling back its manufacturing expenses or overhead costs quickly enough to correspond to lower than expected demand; the risk that longer manufacturing lead times may cause customers to fulfill their orders with a competitor's products instead; product mix; risks associated with the ramp-up of production of Wolfspeed's new products, and Wolfspeed's entry into new business channels different from those in which it has historically operated; Wolfspeed's ability to convert customer design-ins to design-wins and sales of significant volume, and, if customer design-in activity does result in such sales, when such sales will ultimately occur and what the amount of such sales will be; the risk that the markets for Wolfspeed's products will not develop as it expects, including the adoption of Wolfspeed's products by electric vehicle manufacturers and the overall adoption of electric vehicles; the risk that the economic and political uncertainty caused by the tariffs imposed or announced by the United States on imported goods, and corresponding tariffs and other retaliatory measures imposed by other countries (including China) in response, may continue to negatively impact demand for Wolfspeed's products; the risk that Wolfspeed's or its channel partners are not able to develop and expand customer bases and accurately anticipate demand from end customers, including production and product mix, which can result in increased inventory and reduced orders as Wolfspeed experiences wide fluctuations in supply and demand; risks related to international sales and purchases; risks resulting from the concentration of Wolfspeed's business among few customers, including the risk that customers may reduce or cancel orders or fail to honor purchase commitments; the risk that Wolfspeed's investments may experience periods of significant market value and interest rate volatility causing it to recognize fair value losses on Wolfspeed's investment; the risk posed by managing an increasingly complex supply chain (including managing the impacts of supply constraints in the semiconductor industry and meeting purchase commitments under take-or-pay arrangements with certain suppliers) that has the ability to supply a sufficient quantity of raw materials, subsystems and finished products with the required specifications and quality; risks relating to outbreaks of infectious diseases or similar public health events, including the risk of disruptions to Wolfspeed's operations, supply chain, including its contract manufacturers, or customer demand; the risk Wolfspeed may be required to record a significant charge to earnings if its remaining goodwill or amortizable assets become impaired; risks relating to confidential information theft or misuse, including through cyber-attacks or cyber intrusion; Wolfspeed's ability to complete development and commercialization of products under development; the rapid development of new technology and competing products that may impair demand or render Wolfspeed's products obsolete; the potential lack of customer acceptance for Wolfspeed's products; risks associated with ongoing litigation; the risk that customers do not maintain their favorable perception of Wolfspeed's brand and products, resulting in lower demand for its products; the risk that Wolfspeed's products fail to perform or fail to meet customer requirements or expectations, resulting in significant additional costs; risks associated with strategic transactions; the risk that Wolfspeed is not able to successfully execute or achieve the potential benefits of Wolfspeed's efforts to enhance its value; the substantial doubt about Wolfspeed's ability to continue as a going concern; and other factors discussed in Wolfspeed's filings with the SEC, including Wolfspeed's report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, and subsequent reports filed with the SEC. These forward-looking statements represent Wolfspeed's judgment as of the date of this press release. Except as required under the U.S. federal securities laws and the rules and regulations of the SEC, Wolfspeed disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, developments, changes in assumptions or otherwise.
Business Wire
11 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Renesas Announces Expected Loss Resulting from Signing Restructuring Support Agreement with Wolfspeed
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723, "Renesas"), a premier supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions, today announced that it has entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (the "Restructuring Support Agreement") with Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF, "Wolfspeed") and its principal creditors for the financial restructuring of Wolfspeed. As a result, Renesas expects to record a loss as described below. 1. Details of Loss As , Renesas entered into the silicon carbide wafer supply agreement with Wolfspeed, and through Renesas' wholly owned subsidiary in the United States, it provided a deposit (the "Deposit") of US$2 billion (approximately 292.0 billion yen) to Wolfspeed. In October 2024, Renesas and Wolfspeed amended their agreement and increased the outstanding principal amount of the Deposit to US$2.062 billion (approximately 301.1 billion yen). Subsequently, Wolfspeed has experienced financial challenges. On May 8, 2025, during its quarterly earnings call, Wolfspeed disclosed that to achieve its stated goal of strengthening its balance sheet, it may implement a transaction through an in-court solution. Due to Wolfspeed's contemplation of an in-court option, Wolfspeed included required going concern language in the footnotes to its financial statements for the quarterly period ended March 30, 2025. In response to this situation, Renesas has been engaging in discussions with Wolfspeed and today entered into the Restructuring Support Agreement among Wolfspeed and its principal creditors, pursuant to which Renesas agreed to, among other things, convert the Deposit of US$2.062 billion into convertible notes, common stock, and warrants issued by Wolfspeed as follows (the 'Restructuring'). Wolfspeed convertible notes: US$204 million (approximately 29.8 billion yen) in aggregate principal amount, convertible to Wolfspeed common stock, maturing in June 2031. These notes are convertible into 13.6% of Wolfspeed's total issued shares on a non-diluted basis at the time of the completion of the Restructuring. On a fully diluted basis, and prior to the exercise of the warrants to be granted to Renesas, this corresponds to 11.8%. Wolfspeed common stock: equivalent to 38.7% (17.9% on a fully diluted basis, prior to Renesas warrants exercise) of the total number of issued shares of Wolfspeed at the completion of the Restructuring. Wolfspeed warrants: equivalent to 5% (on a fully diluted basis) of the total number of issued shares of Wolfspeed at the completion of the Restructuring. The Restructuring is expected to be consummated through proceedings under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. It is expected that Wolfspeed will file a petition with the court to initiate such proceedings in the near future. The Restructuring is expected to become effective by the end of September 2025, subject to court approval of the restructuring plan. If the necessary regulatory approvals have not been obtained by the time the Restructuring takes effect, Renesas will hold rights to instruments with equivalent economic value to Wolfspeed's convertible notes, common stock, and warrants until those approvals are received. In connection with the signing of the Restructuring Support Agreement, Renesas expects to record a loss on the deposited receivables related to the Deposit in its consolidated financial statements. Although the timing and amount of such loss have not been determined at this time, Renesas believes that there is a possibility of recording a loss of approximately 250 billion yen (converted at an average exchange rate of 150 yen to the dollar during the period) in the consolidated financial statements for the six months ending June 30, 2025. Please note that this amount is an estimate calculated by Renesas' internal analysis based on the currently available information and may increase or decrease due to various factors. The definitive timing and amount of the loss to be recorded will be determined in consultation with Renesas' auditor and will be announced once it is determined. 2. Future Outlook Renesas discloses revenue, gross margin, and operating margin on a "Non-GAAP" basis and does not disclose a forecast for profit attributable to owners of parent. Therefore, there is no change to the forecast for the six months ending June 30, 2025, announced on April 24, 2025. (Note1) Unless otherwise indicated, yen equivalents in this material are calculated using the exchange rate as of June 20, 2025: 146 yen to the dollar. (Note2) Non-GAAP figures are calculated by removing or adjusting non-recurring items and other adjustments from GAAP (IFRS basis) figures following a certain set of rules. Renesas believes non-GAAP measures provide useful information in understanding and evaluating its constant business results, and therefore, forecasts are provided on a non-GAAP basis. This adjustment and exclusion include the amortization of intangible assets recognized from acquisitions, other PPA (purchase price allocation) adjustments and stock-based compensation, as well as other non-recurring expenses and income Renesas believes to be applicable. Expand About Renesas Electronics Corporation Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723) empowers a safer, smarter and more sustainable future where technology helps make our lives easier. A leading global provider of microcontrollers, Renesas combines our expertise in embedded processing, analog, power and connectivity to deliver complete semiconductor solutions. These Winning Combinations accelerate time to market for automotive, industrial, infrastructure and IoT applications, enabling billions of connected, intelligent devices that enhance the way people work and live. Learn more at Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. (FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS) The statements in this press release with respect to the plans, strategies and financial outlook of Renesas and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively 'we') are forward-looking statements involving risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements do not represent any guarantee by management of future performance. In many cases, but not all, we use such words as 'aim,' 'anticipate,' 'believe,' 'continue,' 'endeavor,' 'estimate,' 'expect,' 'initiative,' 'intend,' 'may,' 'plan,' 'potential,' 'probability,' 'project,' 'risk,' 'seek,' 'should,' 'strive,' 'target,' 'will' and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. You can also identify forward-looking statements by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. These statements discuss future expectations, identify strategies, contain projections of our results of operations or financial condition, or state other forward-looking information based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about our business and industry, our future business strategies and the environment in which we will operate in the future. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contained or implied in any forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to, general economic conditions in our markets, which are primarily Japan, North America, Asia, and Europe; demand for, and competitive pricing pressure on, products and services in the marketplace; ability to continue to win acceptance of products and services in these highly competitive markets; fluctuations in currency exchange rates, particularly between the yen and the U.S. dollar; and risks and uncertainties associated with Wolfspeed's proceedings under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, including Wolfspeed's ability to maintain relationships with suppliers, customers, employees and other third parties and regulatory authorities as a result of such proceedings, and other factors discussed in Wolfspeed's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Among other factors, a downturn of the world economy; deteriorating financial conditions in world markets, or a deterioration in domestic and overseas stock markets, may cause actual results to differ from the projected results forecast. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law. This press release is based on the economic, regulatory, market and other conditions as in effect on the date hereof. It should be understood that subsequent developments may affect the information contained in this presentation, which neither we nor our advisors or representatives are under an obligation to update, revise, or affirm.
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Popular HomeGoods rival shuttering dozens of locations
Retail businesses are shutting down at a rate so alarmingly fast in 2025, you may feel like you could blink and realize another has vanished. Perhaps the saddest story of a brand that called it quits in 2025 so far is Joann, a craft and fabric store beloved by its loyal customers. Joann was founded in 1943, so after 82 years of business, it was a shame to watch it close its doors. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Another chain that was incredibly strange to see go was Party City. After 40 years in business, the retailer announced in December 2024 that it would file for bankruptcy and cease operations. Related: Major retailer scores huge benefit from Joann bankruptcy At Home is the most recent major retail chain to file for bankruptcy, announcing it would close 26 underperforming stores by September 30. However, the business hasn't winked out of existence yet, as it's just entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with lenders holding more than 95% of its debt to eliminate the nearly $2 billion in funded debt and provide financing of $200 million that aims to support the retailer through its restructuring process. Now another longtime home goods store is making drastic moves to keep itself afloat in a challenging economic climate. Kirkland's (KIRK) , a Tennessee-based home good retailer that was founded in 1966 by Carl Kirkland and Robert Kirkland, has announced it will close at least two dozen of its 313 store locations. Kirkland's has not yet confirmed which locations will close. TheStreet has reached out to request more information. The closings are part of a rebranding process Kirkland's confirmed on June 17, where the company says it will change its name to The Brand House Collective. This move comes after Beyond Inc., parent company of both Bed, Bath & Beyond and Overstock, acquired Kirkland's IP in a $5 million acquisition. Related: IKEA suddenly closing more stores amid concerning customer trend While store closings typically sound like a bad thing, in this case they seem to be more of a strategic move in step with the company's other brands. Beyond plans to open the first of six Bed, Bath & Beyond Home stores in August 2025, with the first being in Brentwood, Tennessee. Some existing Kirkland stores will also be converted into Bed, Bath & Beyond Home stores, although the specific locations were not named. Kirkland's name will formally change after shareholder approval during its next annual meeting in July, which will also change its ticker from KIRK to TBHC. As consumers navigate an uncertain climate with the threat of tariffs looming, many have pulled back on nonessential purchases this year across many sectors, from food to clothing. Retail sales fell sharply in May, with sales at retail stores and restaurants dropping 0.9%, the Commerce Department reported. However, a few retailers are still seeing shoppers come their way. One is discount home retailer HomeGoods, which reported during its Q1 earnings call in May that comparable sales were up 4% year over year. "Bucking a trend in the home industry now is our home business, especially HomeGoods. We're quite proud the way they're beginning Q2 as well," TJX CEO Ernie Herrman told investors during the call. Related: Beloved local Mexican chain closes locations without warning The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Huge home retailer closing 26 stores amid Chapter 11 bankruptcy
People tend to say not to believe everything they hear, unless it comes straight from the horse's mouth. However, this big-box retailer began abruptly closing multiple locations. As rumors of bankruptcy started to swirl, many loyal customers began to worry about the future of this beloved chain. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Everyone's mom had a retailer they were utterly obsessed with, and we were forced to tag along as their personal bag carriers for what felt like hours. Although we might have hated it as teens, many of us grew to love these stores as adults, causing nostalgia every time we enter their doors. Related: Huge HomeGoods rival files Chapter 11 bankruptcy, closes stores Founded in 1979, At Home, previously known by loyal fans as Garden Ridge, is a home decor and furnishing retail chain with 260 locations in 40 states. Sadly, the lessons here are that we must never take things for granted, because the rumors turned out to be true. Image source: Shutterstock At Home filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 16 in the U.S. Bankruptcy court for the District of Delaware, citing unsustainable costs due to tariffs and a slowdown in consumer spending as the main reasons. As part of the filing, the retail chain has entered a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with stakeholders to eliminate nearly $2 billion in funded debt and provide $200 million in financing to support the retailer through its restructuring process. More Retail News: After bankruptcy, closed clothing chain hints at comebackPopular fast-food burger chain to open first store in new marketBeloved grocery chain closing all stores without bankruptcy filing Once At Home emerges from the RSA, ownership is expected to transition to the supporting lenders to improve At Home's overall profitability and finances. "The steps we are taking today to fully de-lever our balance sheet will improve our ability to compete in the marketplace in the face of continued volatility and increase the resilience of our business for the long term," stated At Home in a press release. As a result of the filing, At Home will permanently close 26 underperforming stores by September 30, according to court documents. Related: Bankrupt retail chain makes major comeback, reopens new stores Here is a list of all locations on the chopping block: 6135 Junction Boulevard in Rego Park, New York300 Baychester Ave. in Bronx, New York750 Newhall Drive in San Jose, California2505 El Camino Real in Tustin, California14585 Biscayne Boulevard in North Miami, Florida2200 Harbor Boulevard in Costa Mesa, California3795 E. Foothills Boulevard in Pasadena, California1982 E. 20th St. in Chico, California2820 Highway 63 South in Rochester, Minnesota26532 Towne Center Drive Suites A-B in Foothill Ranch, California1001 E. Sunset Drive in Bellingham, Washington8320 Delta Shores Circle South in Sacramento, California1361 NJ-35 in Middletown Township, New Jersey2900 N. Bellflower Boulevard in Long Beach, California720 Clairton Boulevard in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania2530 Rudkin Road in Yakima, Washington571 Boston Turnpike in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts5203 W. War Memorial Drive in Peoria, Illinois8300 Sudley Road in Manassas, Virginia461 Route 10 East in Ledgewood, New Jersey301 Nassau Park Boulevard in Princeton, New Jersey300 Providence Highway in Dedham, Massachusetts905 S 24th St. West in Billings, Montana19460 Compass Creek Parkway in Leesburg, Virginia3201 N. Mayfair Road in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin13180 S. Cicero Ave. in Crestwood, Illinois "As we work through this process, our stores and the teams that support them remain customer focused and committed to serving and inspiring customers, enabling them to Design Their Life At Home," said At Home in the press release. Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Huge home retailer files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
This year is increasingly starting to feel like a real-life episode of "The Walking Dead," as major retail chains are beginning to disappear across the U.S. Over the last few months, renowned names like Big Lots, Macy's, Joann Fabrics, JCPenney, Forever 21, and Party City have closed dozens of locations, and some even had to file for the most dreaded bankruptcy. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter With so many iconic retailers closing, it feels like a part of history is being erased. Future generations will never experience the same love-hate relationship we had with being forced to shop for home decor with our mothers and carrying multiple shopping bags after being bribed with lunch. Related: Bankrupt retail chain makes major comeback, reopens new stores No surprise to many, another big-box retailer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but this one is very personal to all Southerners, whether they're home goods enthusiasts or not. Founded in 1979, At Home, previously known by loyal fans as Garden Ridge, is a home decor and furnishing retail chain with 260 locations in 40 states. The former Garden Ridge filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2004 to address lease and contract obligations and emerged from it the following year. Ten years later, the company announced plans to rebrand completely. It changed its name to At Home, refocused its products mainly on home decor, and became public in 2016. Related: Huge home retailer filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy, closing stores At Home was later acquired by the private equity firm Hellman & Friedman in 2021. Although this meant the company would be delisted, it grew immensely and maintained strong financials. However, the retailer was not immune to the aftermath of the Covid pandemic, which caused inflation and a pullback in consumer spending that many retailers couldn't weather. The bills began piling up, and to pay off its mounting debt, At Home implemented cost-saving initiatives, which led it to liquidate and shut down multiple stores. The store closures sounded the alarm for many customers who were worried about the future of the beloved retailer. Rumors of bankruptcy began swirling, and a few months later, their biggest nightmare came true. At Home filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 16 in the U.S. Bankruptcy court for the District of Delaware, citing unsustainable costs due to tariffs and a slowdown in consumer spending as the main reasons in court documents. As a result, the company will permanently close 26 underperforming stores by September 30. More Retail News: After bankruptcy, closed clothing chain hints at comebackStarbucks brings back fan-favorite menu item after 2-year hiatusPopular fast-food burger chain to open first store in new market To navigate the bankruptcy, At Home entered a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with lenders holding more than 95% of its debt to eliminate the nearly $2 billion in funded debt and provide financing of $200 million that aims to support the retailer through its restructuring process. Ownership transition to the supporting lenders is expected once At Home emerges from the RSA. "These efforts are aimed at delivering sustained sales growth, optimizing our inventory management, improving efficiency, and enhancing overall profitability," stated At Home in a press release. Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
