Millions of Euros in Debt Prove Insurmountable for Maison Ullens
The demise of Maison Ullens, a distinguished Belgian luxury fashion brand, has come to fruition following the tragic death of its founder, Myriam Ullens de Schooten Whettnall, who was fatally shot in front of her residence earlier this year.
The company has been grappling with mounting financial losses and an unsuccessful search for a suitable successor to lead the business, as reported by various media outlets.
The Belgian Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that on March 29, the label’s founder was fatally shot multiple times at close proximity by her stepson, Nicolas Ullens. Regrettably, emergency responders arrived too late to save her life.
In the aftermath of her passing, significant questions lingered regarding the brand’s continuity and the future trajectory of the esteemed fashion house. Media sources, including Belgian newspaper De Standaard, reported that Maison Ullens was burdened with substantial debts.
Several months later, Guy Ullens de Schooten, the husband of the late Belgian baroness, initiated bankruptcy proceedings for Maison Ullens. An informed source revealed to Belgian news agency Sudinfo that there were no takers willing to take over the enterprise.
Maison Ullens’ most recent financial report reveals a loss exceeding 10 million euros. This financial setback proved insurmountable for Guy Ullens de Schooten, who had previously invested over 85 million euros into the business in recent years, as detailed by the Gazet van Antwerpen.
On June 15, the company ultimately filed for bankruptcy. The luxury fashion brand, which had boutiques in prominent cities like New York City, Paris, and Aspen, had initially planned an Antwerp flagship store.
At the start of the year, Christian Wijnants assumed the role of the brand’s new creative director. The Belgian designer is celebrated for his handcrafted knitwear, feminine designs, and nature-inspired patterns.