Maisons du Monde has announced plans to close or relocate up to 50 stores as part of a major restructuring strategy aimed at ensuring the company's survival. The decision follows a challenging financial year in which sales dropped by 9.3% and net profit plunged by 74%.
The brand, known for its stylish interior furnishings, is responding to broader pressures in the retail and furniture sectors, including inflation, weakened purchasing power, and global geopolitical tensions. These factors have led consumers to delay non-essential purchases, directly impacting demand.
As part of its recovery strategy, Maisons du Monde will streamline operations by reducing stock levels and halving its supplier base to better align inventory with actual demand. The company aims to save €85 million over the next three years by cutting costs, renegotiating rents, and improving the profitability of remaining stores.
In a shift towards a more flexible business model, the brand also plans to convert up to 30% of its store network into franchises or affiliate partnerships. This move would allow it to share financial risk with local entrepreneurs while maintaining market presence and brand identity.
Despite the closures, the company is not ruling out new openings in high-potential areas, aiming to replace underperforming stores with strategically located outlets. The focus will now be on profitability over expansion.
Maisons du Monde's transformation reflects a broader trend in the retail industry, where adaptability, efficiency, and hybrid models are becoming essential for survival. The brand hopes that by embracing these changes, it can continue to serve its customer base and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Source: LaPlasturgie.