Toronto-based multi-brand denim and fashion retailer Jean Machine has found a buyer and as a result, stores will remain open and employees will keep their jobs. Jean Machine sought bankruptcy protection in early January of this year.

Pacific West Commercial Corporation, an affiliate of Vancouver-based Stern Partners Inc., announced yesterday that it had acquired the business and assets of Jean Machine, and that the retailer will continue to operate as an independent entity. The new owner has also offered jobs to nearly all of Jean Machine's employees. Jean Machine currently operates 31 store locations, all in Ontario.

"We are excited about the long-term potential of Jean Machine and the denim and casual apparel market in Canada," said Ronald N. Stern, President of Stern Partners. "We are confident in the underlying business and believe that, with Jean Machine's liquidity issues behind it, the business is well-positioned for success. We are excited about growing the business with the company's valued employees, customers and suppliers.”

Stern Partners has significant experience in the Canadian retail sector — particularly in apparel — with over 500 stores and controlling interests in five national retailers that include Bootlegger, Cleo, Ricki's, Warehouse One and Urban Barn.

Roy Perlman, one of the founders of Jean Machine, said: "I'm pleased that Jean Machine has found a strong new owner for its business, with a commitment to growth and a long-term investment horizon. I'm equally pleased that almost all of Jean Machine's stores will remain open and that substantially all of our dedicated employees continue to have the opportunity to work with Jean Machine.”

"Given the strong brand built up over several decades by Jean Machine in Ontario, as well as its exceptional mall based locations, the acquisition by Stern Partners to consolidate Jean Machine with the Bootlegger chain makes excellent strategic sense," said Farla Efros, president of HRC Retail Advisory.

Jean Machine was founded 40 years ago, and was profiled in Retail Insider in May of 2016, when it launched a new location as well as a strategy to attract a more mature clientele.

*Photos in this article are via THE NEW RETAIL.

Canadian Retail News From Around The Web: March 23, 2017