French furniture retailer Alinéa is facing potential liquidation after failing to secure a buyer, putting around 1,200 jobs at risk.
The Marseille commercial court is expected to decide on the company's future after the only potential bidder, Romanian group SDC Holding, initially withdrew its offer. Without a takeover, the retailer's 35 stores across France could close.
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Founded in 1988 in Avignon and headquartered in Aubagne, Alinéa has been part of the Mulliez family group, which also owns brands such as Auchan, Leroy Merlin and Decathlon.
The company has struggled financially for several years. It entered receivership in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic and has been unable to return to profitability since. In 2024, the retailer reported losses of €47m on revenues of €162m.
However, a late development has emerged after reports that the withdrawn bidder has submitted a revised offer. According to regional media, the new proposal could retain around half of the company's workforce.
If no viable rescue plan is accepted, the court is expected to proceed with full liquidation, marking the possible end of the long-running French furniture chain.
Source: www.20minutes.fr
