More than 400 former Debenhams employees who lost their jobs when the department store chain went into administration have won their legal battle against the retailer.
The 419 claimants launched action in August 2020, shortly after the retailer collapsed and axed a third of its workforce.
Simpson Millar, the law firm representing the former staff, announced on Wednesday that the employment tribunal had ruled in favour of the claimants.
The judge ruled that Debenhams had failed its duty to provide a consultation.period for those at risk of redundancy.
The law firm said the value of the claim is being calculated and is expected to fall in the region of £860,000.
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Simpson Millar is also representing 475 former employees who are bringing a Protective Award claim against Debenhams, final judgements are awaited.
Lawyer Amanda McKinley said: “We are delighted to have now received the first judgment in relation to the Protective Award claim on behalf of a significant number of our clients who were affected by redundancies when Debenhams entered into administration in 2020.
“In this case the employment tribunal Judge has ruled that the retailer failed in its duty under UK employment law legislation to carry out proper consultation with staff at risk of redundancies, and the outcome of the legal action now paves the way to secure a payout in the form of a protective award for our clients which is expected to be in the region of £860k.
“As a result of the employment tribunal judgments our clients will now be compensated by up to 90 days’ gross pay, albeit capped at £4,304 given that the company is insolvent.”
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