Key Takeaways
- Amazon challenges Saks Global Enterprises’ Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, arguing against the proposed $1.75 billion financing.
- Amazon had invested $475 million in Saks as part of their 2024 acquisition of Neiman Marcus for $2.65 billion.
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Amazon is fighting to salvage a stake in Saks Global after the luxury retailer entered Chapter 11 and sought financing that could subordinate the tech giant’s equity.
In 2024, Amazon invested $475 million in preferred equity to help Saks complete its $2.65 billion acquisition of Neiman Marcus.
Under a commercial agreement between the two companies, Saks agreed to sell its products on Amazon, pay referral fees, and guarantee at least $900 million in payments to Amazon over eight years.
However, Saks’ financial performance deteriorated rapidly, with missed budgets, heavy cash burn, and unpaid invoices. Following a period of intense financial pressure, the company filed for bankruptcy protection on January 13.
The company has secured $1.75 billion in committed financing, including a $1 billion immediate cash infusion (DIP loan) to pay vendors and employees, plus an additional $500 million available upon exiting bankruptcy.
The proposed bankruptcy financing has drawn opposition from Amazon, which filed court papers Wednesday claiming it would overburden Saks with new debt and negatively impact unsecured creditors.
Earlier, Amazon refused consent for a critical part of the loan, but Saks proceeded with existing lender financing, asserting the move would stabilize operations and keep all stores open.