For immediate release                                                                                            November 18, 2011

HARTFORD, November 18 – Attorney General George Jepsen and Consumer Protection Commissioner William M. Rubenstein are advising consumers that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware has approved the terms of liquidation sales for all Syms and Filene’s Basement stores, including two in Connecticut in Berlin and Fairfield.

The company filed for bankruptcy protection earlier this month. The sales are expected to begin as early as today and continue possibly through Jan. 31, although the sales may conclude sooner at some stores. All merchandise sold during the liquidation sales will be sold "as is," and all sales will be final.

All Syms and Filene’s Basement gift cards, gift certificates, store merchandise credits and rewards programs will be honored during the sales.

Consumers may also return products purchased prior to the start of the liquidation sales with original receipts. The terms and conditions of the merchandise return policies in effect at the time of purchase will apply.

"My office will continue to work to protect the interests of Connecticut consumers who encounter difficulties or have unresolved complaints with these companies as this case proceeds through bankruptcy," Attorney General Jepsen said.

Consumer Protection Commissioner William M. Rubenstein said, "We’re pleased that the Court’s order allows shoppers to apply their existing Filenes or Syms gift cards, certificates, credits and rewards programs, and that the terms of this liquidation sale are clearly defined so that shoppers understand what to expect."

The liquidators have received court approval to sell a limited amount of additional inventory, which must be the same kind and quality as Syms and Filene’s Basement goods and marked with distinct labels. Signs will be posted in the stores to explain these issues to consumers.

Assistant Attorneys General Brendan Flynn and Sandra Arenas Charles are handling this matter for the Attorney General.

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CONTACT:

Susan E. Kinsman, Office of the Attorney General; susan.kinsman@ct.gov; 860-808-5324; 860-478-9581 (cell)

Claudette Carveth, Department of Consumer Protection; claudette.carveth@ct.gov; 860-713-6022