Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has issued a consumer alert regarding the recent bankruptcy filing of flooring retailer Lumber Liquidators. On August 11, 2024, Lumber Liquidators filed for bankruptcy restructuring in Delaware federal district court. As part of its restructuring plan, the company plans to close three of its seven stores in Minnesota, specifically those located in Chanhassen (2973 Water Tower Place), Rochester (5139 Highway 52N), and St. Cloud (3320 Division Street West). The four other Minnesota locations—in Blaine, Burnsville, Duluth, and Woodbury—will remain open.
Initially, Lumber Liquidators requested permission from the bankruptcy court to stop accepting customer gift cards at all store locations starting September 4, 2024. However, following concerns raised by a coalition of Attorneys General including Minnesota's Ellison, the company modified its request. Gift cards will now be accepted at the closing store locations until September 19, 2024. After this date, gift cards will no longer be valid at these closing stores but will continue to be accepted at other Minnesota locations that are not closing.
Lumber Liquidators has also proposed restrictions on existing orders as part of its bankruptcy proceedings. Consumers seeking information on how to file a claim can visit the website administered by Lumber Liquidators' claims agent Stretto at https://cases.stretto.com/LLFlooring or email TeamLLFlooring@stretto.com.
The company aims to sell its remaining business within the bankruptcy process and is currently negotiating with multiple bidders. It hopes to secure court approval for a proposed sale by mid-September.
The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and other state attorneys general will continue monitoring and participating in Lumber Liquidators’ bankruptcy proceedings to advocate for consumer protection.
Consumers or employees with concerns about the bankruptcy or store closures can contact the Attorney General’s office by calling (651) 296-3353 or (800) 657-3787 or by filing a complaint online on the Minnesota Attorney General’s website.