Big Bazar is set to close 20 loss-making stores and is seeking rent reductions for 20 other stores. According to CEO Heerke Kooistra, these measures are necessary “to keep healthy” the bargain chain which has 120 branches and employs 1,400 staff members. If property owners decline to renegotiate lease agreements, Kooistra suggested that Big Bazar may withhold rent to open discussions.