Once a high-street staple in the UK retail landscape, Debenhams has undergone major changes over the past few years. While Debenhams still exists as a familiar name, it now operates in a very different way.
We hear from so many people who are caught up in disputes with Debenhams and have found it tricky getting in touch and having their voice heard.
As retail shifts further into the online space, being well-informed on your consumer rights when shopping with brands like Debenhams can make the difference between a frustrating shopping experience and a smooth and fair one.
A brief history of Debenhams
Debenhams was founded in 1778 and became one of the most recognisable department store chains in the UK, offering a wide range of products from fashion to homeware. Yet, as with many large retailers, the combination of changing consumer habits, rising competition from online retailers, and financial challenges put them under pressure.
In 2019 Debenhams entered administration, and did so again in 2020.
In early 2021, fashion retailer Boohoo Group acquired the Debenhams brand and website, but not its physical stores, which were subsequently closed. Today, Debenhams operates solely as an online retailer.
The Boohoo Group acquisition means that shoppers are now effectively buying from Boohoo when they shop on the Debenhams website. This change has has a big impact when it comes to consumer rights and customer care.
Customer service and dispute resolution
The main criticism following the takeover has been inconsistent customer service. As Boohoo is now responsible for Debenhams orders, customers must use Boohoo’s support channels, which people are finding far less accessible or responsive as they were during Debenhams’ high-street era.
Some of the comments made by Resolver users who had raised disputes with Debenhams suggest some serious failings:
Lu’s review from June 2025 paints a picture of someone whose experience was not what they expected from such a household brand:
“Debenhams was a company that I believed to be reputable, sadly I waited over 6 weeks for a refund for items I returned (tracked). The lack of commutation and integrity was shameful and if it hadn’t been for Resolver, Im not entirely certain I would have received a refund at all!”
Patricia writes, “Took far too long to refund returned item. No real customer care just continuous robotic answers with no attempt to take part in any real customers care. Not even one goodwill gesture they did not care.”
“Refunds are a nightmare”, writes Onyinye. “I am not sure I would be patronising them anytime soon”. Similarly, Lesley gave one star, noting that while “Debenhams do respond […] they drag their feet when it comes to refunding.”
How to get in touch with Debenhams
Unfortunately, Debenhams have removed a customer service number – so it is not possible to speak with them or lodge a complaint over the phone. You can contact them via email, text. Whatsapp or Facebook messenger via their contact page.
Debenhams do respond to complaints raised via Resolver – so this is a great option for anyone who has a dispute and needs a swift and smooth resolution.
In fact, Jan’s review states that “[u]ntil I contacted resolver […] I never received any response from Debenhams regarding my complaint regarding non receipt of my item.”
And there are other reviews which suggest that it is possible to get an issue sorted smoothly: Diane writes that “Debenhams were quick to resolve my query and I received a full refund.”
Raise a Debenhams complaint via Resolver
Your shopping rights
Returns and refunds
Under UK law, consumers have the right to return most online purchases within 14 days of receiving them. Boohoo’s version of Debenhams must comply with the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, which state that:
- You have 14 days to cancel your online order.
- You then have a further 14 days to return the item.
- A full refund (including standard delivery charges) must be issued within 14 days of receiving the return
However, shoppers should check Debenhams’ online return policy carefully, as items like beauty products or underwear may have different rules due to hygiene reasons.
Faulty goods
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 protects you if the goods you receive are faulty or not as described. You’re entitled to:
- A full refund if the item is faulty within 30 days.
- A repair or replacement if the issue occurs after 30 days but within six months.
- A potential partial refund or replacement after six months, depending on the product and circumstances.
All these rights apply to online purchases from Debenhams under Boohoo’s ownership.
Key tips for online shoppers
From social media shopping scams and second-hand selling platforms to delivery disputes, the world of e-commerce is changing how we shop and can pose all kinds of new problems for consumers. Our key tips for protecting yourself and your purchases include:
- Always check the retailer’s terms and conditions before purchase.
- Keep proof of payment and order confirmation, in case you need to return the item or dispute a charge.
- Use a credit card for purchases over £100 to gain added protection under Section 75.
- Report any issues promptly, especially if you’re within the 30-day window for faulty goods.
If you have any thoughts on this topic, or any other consumer issues you would like us to cover, feel free to get in touch with us at support@resolver.co.uk.