Ten Russell & Bromley stores have closed or are set to close across Britain following the brand's acquisition by Next, signaling a major restructuring for the 146-year-old retailer. Further closures are expected as the company winds down operations.
The iconic British shoe brand Russell & Bromley is undergoing a significant restructuring following its acquisition by Next just three months ago, resulting in the closure of ten of its stores across the UK.
The Covent Garden branch in London has already ceased trading, marking the beginning of a wave of closures impacting locations such as Bath and Harrogate, scheduled for April 23rd. Prior closures include stores in Exeter, Hampstead, Winchester, Stratford, Birmingham, Jermyn Street, and Canary Wharf in London, alongside outlet stores in Swindon, Ashford, and Cheshire Oaks. This widespread reduction in physical retail presence signals a strategic shift under Next’s ownership, focusing on a smaller, more curated selection of stores.
Administrators at Interpath have indicated that further closures are anticipated in the coming weeks, though specific timelines remain uncertain. The exact number of job losses resulting from these closures has not yet been confirmed, adding to the uncertainty for Russell & Bromley’s approximately 440 employees, though Next did transfer 40 employees as part of the acquisition.
The acquisition by Next in January involved a £2.5 million deal for the brand name, domain names, and intellectual property, but crucially, only included three of the original 36 stores – those in Chelsea, Mayfair, and Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent. This left the remaining stores and nine concessions vulnerable, leading to the current round of closures. The situation has also left suppliers in a difficult position, grappling with large quantities of unsold stock following the retailer’s administration.
Russell & Bromley, a brand favoured by members of the Royal Family including the Princess of Wales, Queen Camilla, and the Duchess of Edinburgh, had been struggling financially in recent years, ultimately leading to its fall into administration. The company’s CEO, Andrew Bromley, representing the fifth generation of his family to lead the business, described the sale as the best way to secure the brand’s future, despite the difficult decision.
Customers with valid gift cards or loyalty points will find they can no longer be redeemed at Russell & Bromley stores or through Next. Those who purchased faulty goods before January 21st, 2026, are advised to contact the administrators for refunds. The closures of Russell & Bromley stores reflect a broader trend of challenges facing British high streets. Other retailers, such as The Original Factory Shop, Claire's, and Bodycare, have recently faced administration or collapse, resulting in significant job losses.
Established in 1880 in Eastbourne, East Sussex, by George Bromley and Elizabeth Russell, both from established shoemaking families, Russell & Bromley has a rich heritage. However, this history wasn’t enough to shield it from the current economic pressures.
Next, meanwhile, has been actively pursuing an acquisition strategy to bolster its financial performance, having previously acquired Seraphine and FatFace. This latest move demonstrates Next’s willingness to absorb established brands and integrate them into its existing portfolio, often streamlining operations and focusing on online sales. The situation highlights the evolving retail landscape, where traditional brick-and-mortar stores are increasingly struggling to compete with online retailers and changing consumer habits.
The future of Russell & Bromley, while secured in terms of brand ownership, looks markedly different from its past, with a significantly reduced physical presence and a renewed focus under Next’s direction
Russell & Bromley Next Retail Closures Administration High Street Shopping UK Retail
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Woke School Book Stores Exposed: Scholastic Publishing Pro-Trans, ‘Anti-Racist’ Books for Ten-Year-OldsSource of breaking news and analysis, insightful commentary and original reporting, curated and written specifically for the new generation of independent and conservative thinkers.
Read more »
As Taylor Sheridan Prepares to Leave Paramount, His New Series Shows Why He Dominates TVKurt Russell as Preston Clyburn sitting beside a campfire on 'The Madison'
Read more »
Costco's new checkout limits will affect stores across the US under new billTime is running out on the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, as Vice President JD Vance hopes to lead high-stakes negotiations despite uncertainty over Iran’s participation.
Read more »
How Mercedes F1 Boss Toto Wolff Plans to Keep Russell and Antonelli's Battle in CheckGeorge Russell and Kimi Antonelli are both currently in the front of the 2026 Formula 1 season pack. Mercedes F1 team leader Toto Wolff has to make sure everyone works towards the same goal.
Read more »
Ciara Wows in Jean Shorts Fit With Russell Wilson at 'Devil Wears Prada 2' PremiereThe star couple hits the red carpet for the big blockbuster film premiere that the recording artist has a cameo in.
Read more »
Four arrested after trying to pass fake $100 bills at Publix stores, deputies sayFour people are in custody on Tuesday after investigators say they tried passing counterfeit $100 bills at two Publix stores in Martin County.
Read more »