FASHION chain Republic has gone into administration putting 2,500 jobs at risk.
Administrator Ernst & Young said the 121 shops including the the store at Lakeside will continue to trade while it looks for a buyer.
However, shops at Lakeside appear to have a good reputation in surviving and staying open.
According to reports, Republic, was hit by a “sudden and rapid decline’ in sales at the end of last month after poor trading results over the autumn.
Ernst said it had made 150 staff redundant at Republic’s headquarters in Leeds.
Administrator Hunter Kelly said: “Republic suffered poor trading results in the autumn, and whilst sales picked up in December there has been a sudden and rapid decline in sales in late January.
Republic, which targets the youth fashion market, sells brands including Jack Jones, SoulCal, Diesel and Firetrap.
Ernst & Young has set up a helpline for customers on 0113 298 2450 and the e-mail address republicinadmin@uk.ey.com.
“Dreams” are rumoured to be next!