La Samaritaine closed for up to six years
La Samaritaine, one of France's oldest department stores owned by luxury goods giant LMVH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, is to close for up to six years for essential repairs to its 1870s-era structure.
The store shut its doors on June 15 after announcing that the building had become decrepit over the years and was a danger to shoppers. Management said that the 656,600 square-foot structure needs major renovation, in particular to its metal framework and flooring.
In a statement, the store said it decided on the total closure instead of trying to repair the building in sections, which would have allowed La Samaritaine to continue its commercial activity.
About 1,350 people work at the department store. The building, located in the heart of Paris near the Louvre museum, has been designated a historic monument.
