Perry Sport, Aktiesport declared bankrupt; Many potential buyers

The court declared USG, parent company of Perry Sport and Aktiesport, bankrupt on Tuesday afternoon. Many parties are showing interest in taking over the two sporting goods chains. Dozens of potential buyers already made themselves known. This bankruptcy is the result of V&D's fall and the relaunch of Scapino, bankruptcy curator Toni van Hees explained to broadcaster NOS. Many Perry Sport stores were so-called shops-in-shops located in V&D department stores. The same goes for Aktiesport in many Scapinos. The two sports chains were dropped into a financial mess when it became clear that V&D and Scapino won't reopen. This means that the about 2 thousand employees in 250 stores are facing an uncertain time. Due to the bankruptcy, benefit agency UWV will be paying their salaries for the next six weeks. And the stores will remain open for the time being, while the bankruptcy curators examine restart possibilities. Van Hees is feeling positive about the chances of a restart. "They are beautiful stores that are profitable for the most part", he said to NOS. This week the bankruptcy curators will collect as much information as possible from interested parties. The first talks about a possible takeover may start as soon as next week. "There is interest and I think there is a good chance that an important part of the stores will continue to exist."