Asset Monetization in the Distressed Retail Sector: 2026 Outlook
Our advisory team shares insights on the evolving landscape for asset monetization, inventory liquidation, and going-concern sales as distress levels in the retail sector remain elevated heading into 2026.
Market Overview
The distressed retail landscape continues to present both challenges and opportunities for lenders, investors, and operators. Elevated interest rates, persistent inflationary pressure on operating costs, and shifting consumer patterns have combined to accelerate balance sheet stress across a wide range of retail segments.
Key Trends We Are Monitoring
Inventory Liquidation Demand
Retailers carrying excess inventory from overexpansion cycles are increasingly turning to negotiated liquidation programs as an alternative to formal insolvency proceedings. We anticipate continued demand for structured inventory monetization solutions through the balance of 2026.
Lender-Driven Asset Sales
Senior secured lenders are demonstrating increased willingness to pursue enforcement remedies, particularly in cases where borrower cooperation is limited. Court-appointed receiverships and UCC Article 9 sales have increased meaningfully year-over-year.
Going-Concern vs. Liquidation
The differential between going-concern and liquidation values remains wide in many categories, underscoring the importance of early intervention. RMP Partners consistently pursues going-concern outcomes where financial and operational circumstances permit, as these transactions deliver materially superior recovery values.
Our Capabilities
RMP Partners brings full-cycle asset monetization capabilities, from pre-engagement valuation through final asset disposition. Our national network of buyers, liquidators, and strategic investors enables us to execute efficiently across transaction types and asset classes.
For a confidential discussion of your situation, please contact our advisory team.
RMP Partners' Operational Advantage in Retail Monetization
RMP Partners brings direct operational experience to retail asset monetization that distinguishes us from purely financial advisory firms. Our founders built and operated one of the largest rug and home furnishings networks in the United States — 80+ retail locations, 1,000+ wholesale clients nationwide — and our logistics team has personally executed more than 150 furniture and rug liquidations. Today, our active portfolio includes multiple retail and consumer brands, giving our advisors current, first-hand insight into retail asset recovery dynamics.
Amir Mireskandari
CEO & President
Amir Mireskandari is the CEO & President of RMP Partners, with over two decades of experience building and monetizing businesses across home furnishings, retail, real estate, and technology sectors. He has personally overseen the acquisition, operation, and disposition of 14+ operating companies and 150+ asset liquidations nationwide.
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