PA-Based David's Bridal Files For Bankruptcy, Second Time In 5 Years

PENNSYLVANIA — David's Bridal, one of the nation's biggest retailers for weddings, has filed for bankruptcy for the second time in five years.

The Conshohocken, Pennsylvania-based company said Monday it had filed voluntary petitions for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey, and will seek similar protection in Canada and the United Kingdom.

David's Bridal is seeking to sell the company, and said Sunday it could eliminate more than 9,000 jobs across the U.S. in a filing with the PA Department of Labor.

Stores will remain open and the company said it intends to keep operating as normal, fulfilling customer orders both in-store and online.

David's Bridal has about 300 stores in dozens of states and employs more than 11,000 people, the Associated Press reported.

The company said it will lay off about 9,236 workers across the U.S. in three phases: one which began April 14, one from May 13-27, and one from June 12 to Aug. 11.

David's Bridal has 15 stores in nine PA counties.

CEO James Marcum said the business continues to be challenged by COVID-19's impact on the economy, leading to the company's search for a buyer to operate David's Bridal going forward.

"We are determined to stay focused on our future, because we believe we have an important role in ensuring that every bride, no matter her budget, can have her perfect dress," said Marcum in a news release.

"We are grateful to the seven decades of brides and customers who have trusted us with the most special events of their lives, as well as to the dedicated associates and valued partners who make our customers' dreams come true," he continued. "We remain as committed as ever to providing excellent service, delivering for our brides and customers, and being part of magical moments."