Fashion chain Mark One collapses - 60 jobs at risk in the West Midlands

Nov 25 2008 by Jon Griffin, Birmingham Mail

AROUND 60 West Midland jobs have been plunged into jeopardy for the second time in a year following the collapse of discount fashion retailer Mark One, it was revealed today.

Dozens of store jobs across the region are among 1,400 nationwide at risk following the financial crash of the stricken chain.

The collapse is the second to hit the retailer within 12 months as the firm has struggled against debts to stay afloat.

Stores caught up in the latest collapse – but which are still trading – include outlets in Birmingham’s Pallasades shopping centre, Brierley Hill, Redditch, Sutton Coldfield, Walsall, West Bromwich, Leamington, Worcester, Nuneaton, Burton on Trent and Shrewsbury.

Mark One, launched in 1985 as a value fashion retail business, then trading as Mk One, was sold earlier this year and, shortly after, the business was placed in administration.

Jet Star Retail Ltd bought 100-plus stores and relaunched the business, subsequently rebranding it as Mark One, but failed to halt its second demise.