SSENSE Secures $40 Million Financing and Court-Approved Restructuring Plan

Summary

• SSENSE has secured nearly $40 million in new financing and a court-approved restructuring plan
• The money came from a consortium of banks and the company’s founders
• The funds will allow SSENSE to continue operating and explore a potential sale

A pivotal moment for SSENSE, the e-commerce platform has announced that it has secured court approval for a restructuring plan and has obtained nearly $40 million USD in new financing. This crucial agreement allows the embattled online retailer to continue operating under the control of its founders and provides a vital lifeline to stabilize the business.

The restructuring, filed under Canada’s Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA), comes after a difficult period for the company. SSENSE, which was valued at $5 billion in 2021, has faced significant financial headwinds, including a downturn in luxury consumer spending and the elimination of a key US shipping exemption. This led to a battle for control, as lenders pushed for a quick sale, a move the company’s founders fought in court.

The newly secured financing package includes $15 million from a consortium of its bank lenders and an additional $25 million from the company’s founders. According to CEO Rami Atallah, the court decision is a “critical step, marking the beginning of our next phase. With the support of our lenders, we now have the foundation to develop and implement a restructuring plan aimed at securing SSENSE’s long-term future. Our priority remains protecting our employees, customers, and partners, and we are committed to rebuilding their trust. We are grateful for the unwavering support of our community, which reinforces our global relevance and the strength of our brand. We now have the time, resources, and structure in place to begin the process of rebuilding a stronger SSENSE.” The company will now use this capital to develop a restructuring plan and explore options for a sale, new investments, or financing to secure its long-term future. This move signals that despite recent challenges, SSENSE is committed to rebuilding and remaining a key player in the luxury fashion market.