In July 2026, it was reported that five factories in Bangladesh under the Lithe Group, including Apparel 21, were indefinitely closed, leaving around 3000 workers unemployed. The shutdown was reportedly due to multiple factors that resulted in the factories facing financial difficulties, including a reduction in orders, uncertainty over future orders, and a significant drop in product prices. The factories reportedly closed suddenly with a notice posted at the main gates, with workers reportedly not having yet received their May and June wages.

In August 2026, Business & Human Rights Centre invited alleged buyers of Apparel 21, River Island and Matalan, to respond. The responses can be found below.