U.K.’S KOOKAI CRUMBLES: Kookai’s business in the U.K. is on the block. The fast-fashion chain’s activity in the country, where it was franchised through an agreement with Forminster plc that expired on Dec. 31, is in “administration,” a British bankruptcy procedure. Deloitte & Touche has been tapped to seek a buyer for the firm’s 25 stores and 30 concessions in the U.K. “Kookai is a very strong retail brand,” said Neville Kahn, a partner at Deloitte, in a statement. “For some time there has been uncertainty over the franchise arrangements with Kookai SA, and this administration enables more stability to be brought into the business. The operations will continue to trade, and I am very confident that with the support of staff, customers and suppliers we will be able to conclude a sale of some or all of the business as a going concern.” As reported, France’s Kookai SA, owned by the retail conglomerate Vivarte, and Forminster announced in October that their franchise agreement was not appropriate to be renewed.
SMART MOVE: Online off-price retailer SmartBargains Inc. appointed Barton Litvin chief merchandising officer. Litvin, who will be responsible for all areas of merchandising, is a 30-year retail veteran, and was most recently senior vice president and general merchandise manager of home at department store chain Boscov’s. He worked for Filene’s in Boston prior to Boscov’s. “Bart’s strong merchandising and leadership capabilities will be a valuable addition as we continue to strengthen and broaden our product offerings,” said Ben Fischman, chief executive officer of Boston-based SmartBargains, in a statement. SmartBargains offers branded apparel, jewelry, home and electronics goods at up to 70 percent off retail.
HAGGAR TAPS HARRIS: Haggar Clothing Co. said late Wednesday that Joseph Harris joined the company to serve as senior vice president of global sourcing and product development. He held a similar position at specialty retailer Pacific Sunwear, and was also an executive at Liz Claiborne. Harris’ focus will be on sourcing goods from Asia.