Retailer Express Seeks Bankruptcy Savior in Toys ‘R’ Us Owner

  • WHP Global, Sycamore among firms mulling bids in Ch. 11
  • Prospective bids would preserve apparel chain’s operations

WHP acquired the Toys “R” Us name by buying a controlling stake in its owner during the retail giant’s 2018 liquidation.

Photographer: Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg
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Express Inc. is looking to a stakeholder best known for its revival of Toys “R” Us to swoop in with a takeover bid once the retailer enters bankruptcy court, according to people with knowledge of the plans.

WHP Global, a brand manager that owns Express shares as part of a 2023 partnership, is among a handful of firms considering buying the troubled apparel chain as part of Chapter 11 proceedings, said the people, who could not be named discussing private preparations.