Nearly 150 Layoffs Expected In WI David’s Bridal Stores: Notice

WISCONSIN — Popular wedding gown retailer David's Bridal expects to lay off nearly 150 employees in Wisconsin, according to a WARN notice filed with the Department of Workforce Development last week.

The popular shop, which also sells bridesmaid dresses and other formal attire, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection amid the layoff notices in Wisconsin and nationwide.

In Wisconsin, 147 employees may be affected by a series of layoffs that began with corporate employees last week, according to the company's WARN notice. Other employees who work in stores may be affected by layoffs between June 12 and Aug. 11, the notice said.

The notice, dated April 14, said the layoffs are likely, though it is uncertain if the company is ceasing operations entirely. All of the company's employees may be affected.

None of the potentially impacted employees in the Badger State are represented by unions, the notice said.

Several stores across Wisconsin may be impacted, including locations in Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, Appleton, Greenfield and Brookfield, the notice said.

In a news release last week, David’s Bridal said both brick-and-mortar stores and online sales, including through its Pearl platform and vendor marketplace, will remain accessible to brides for their wedding planning needs. The company said it intends to honor gift cards, returns and exchanges.

The bankruptcy petition included the usual “first day” relief, including authorization from the court to pay its workers, maintain certain customer programs and honor obligations to critical vendors.

David’s Bridal CEO James Marcum said the company “continues to be challenged by the post-COVID environment and uncertain economic conditions, leading us to take this step to identify a buyer who can continue to operate our business going forward.”