SEATTLE: Sur La Table announced that it has filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey to consummate a restructuring and going-concern sale of the Company, subject to Court approval.

With the support of its lenders, Sur La Table has secured the necessary debtor-in-possession financing to complete the Court process. The Company contemplates the sale of Sur La Table retail stores after the rationalization of its national store footprint and closure of certain stores to prosper in the current retail environment and position the Company for a vibrant future.

The Company has entered into a stalking horse asset purchase term sheet with affiliates of Fortress Investment Group. Fortress is working in partnership with STORY3 Capital Partners, who together bring capital and deep consumer expertise which will empower the Company to unlock significant growth opportunities.

Following the sale, the Company will include its successful retail stores, popular in-person and online cooking classes, and its thriving eCommerce business. Sur La Table believes that it is exceptionally well positioned to thrive in the post-COVID-19 world, as food, cooking and in-home entertainment continue to capture increasing mindshare of consumers, and as such, this strategy is in the best long-term interests of its employees, customers, and vendors.

Jason Goldberger, CEO of Sur La Table commented: “This sale process will result in a revitalized Sur La Table, positioned to thrive in a post COVID-19 retail environment. Sur La Table will have a balance sheet and retail footprint optimized to position the Company for a bright future that continues our nearly 50-year tradition of offering high-quality cooking products and experiences to our customers.”

As of July 4th, 2020, 121 Sur La Table stores across the country have safely reopened, in accordance with CDC, federal, state and local guidelines. The Company has filed customary motions with the Bankruptcy Court that will permit, upon Court approval, Sur La Table’s ability to maintain operations in the ordinary course. These motions are typical in the Chapter 11 process and the Company anticipates that they will be approved shortly after this voluntary filing of its application for protection under the applicable statutes.

The Company commenced cases to reorganize under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code on July 8, 2020. The Chapter 11 cases are being jointly administered under case number 20-18368. Cole Schotz, P.C. is restructuring counsel and SOLIC Capital is financial advisor and investment banker. Omni is serving as the claims agent.