Brookstone Inc., known for its wide array of consumer gadgets such as massage chairs and travel electronics, is contemplating a possible bankruptcy filing in the coming weeks as talks advance with potential buyers, the Wall Street Journal reported today. The specialty retailer, plagued by disappointing sales, weak liquidity and a hefty debt load, is in talks with firms including Hilco Global and Tiger Capital Group LLC on buying or investing in the company. A liquidation of the mall- and airport-based chain isn't currently on the table, though a potential buyer would likely evaluate the company's more than 250 stores. The company, which is based in Merrimack, N.H., and has about $140 million in debt, stressed that it hasn't yet reached a deal with a potential buyer or investor or decided whether or not it will file for bankruptcy protection.
