October 22, 2008
All Linen ‘n Things Stores Will Soon Close
Department Offers Advice to Shoppers
HARTFORD, October 22 -- As Linens 'n Things closes all of its 371 remaining stores in 48 states, including nine in Connecticut, the Department of Consumer Protection is advising consumers to use their store gift cards immediately and choose their items carefully. The bankrupt New Jersey-based retailer was unable to find a buyer willing to take over the locations as a going concern. Linens ‟n Things filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May and already closed 218 stores this year, including stores in Farmington and Lisbon. A company spokesperson has said that the company's remaining inventory was sold to a group of liquidators; Gordon Brothers Retail Partners LLC is overseeing the liquidation in Connecticut. All stores will close permanently after the liquidation sales are finished. “There is no definitive final closing date, but we believe they will be done before the end of 2008,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell said today. “Consumers with store credit and gift cards should use them now.” Shoppers should understand there are no returns or refunds on items purchased after October 17th. “I urge customers to shop carefully, because the no return, no refund policy is very clearly stated,” Farrell said. “We‟ve been told that stores have set up testing tables for consumers. Before purchasing, consumers should see a store representative and test items to determine if they are defective. Consumers may remove items from packaging in order to check for defects.” The store‟s normal policy of allowing returns up to 60 days after purchase with a receipt now applies only to items bought between August 18th and October 17th. Nothing purchased before August 18th or after October 17th may be returned. Consumers who have questions or concerns should contact the Linens „n Things headquarters at 973-778-1300. “We have been told that phone assistance to consumers is available at that number,” Farrell said. “Persons who believe they have been unfairly treated after trying to resolve a problem with the liquidators should file a written complaint immediately with the Department of Consumer Protection, Trade Practices Division, 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT. We‟ll need a full written explanation of the problem and copies of receipts and any other relevant paperwork so that we may advocate on consumers‟ behalf.” ###