Circuit City
Even though the battered consumer-electronics retailer recently hired the same law firm that held Kmart's hand through Chapter 11 bankruptcy several years ago, Circuit City may still have some fight left in it. This morning's Wall Street Journal leans on unnamed "people familiar with the company" in claiming that the superstore chain is thinking about closing at least 150 stores and slashing several thousand jobs, instead of filing for bankruptcy protection.
Bankruptcy reorganization can be a killer. Kmart made it through the storm, but it was aided by rich real estate holdings, which made it an attractive catch when it eventually combined with Sears to form Sears Holdings
Kmart also specializes in soft goods and low-priced sundries, so it's not as if shoppers were hesitant during the process. On the other hand, consumers aren't going to buy big-ticket flat screens, computers, and cameras if they don't think Circuit City will be there to take returns. Don't even think about buying someone a Circuit City gift card. To some stocking-stuffer-watchers, that may be about as welcome as a lump of coal.
The move to shrink from its base of 714 stateside stores and a payroll of 45,000 is substantial, but it's hard to imagine the company's sales holding up if it has to go through the Chapter 11 wringer.
There are just too many competitors out there. In addition to market leader Best Buy
In other words, the world may not necessarily miss Circuit City if it goes away. However, because shareowners and tens of thousands of jobs are at stake, it would be a shame to see Circuit City fade away. Even if that's a fitting end after the company ridiculously rebuffed several buyout offers in recent years, no one should have to spend the holidays in a world of hurt.
Other ways to see more than the red in Circuit City's logo:
